Court affirms FCCPC’s authority to investigate Air Peace over consumer complaints

The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a legal challenge filed by Air Peace Limited, affirming the statutory powers of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate consumer grievances and issue summons.

In a landmark judgment delivered on Monday, April 20, 2026, Justice James Omotosho ruled that the FCCPC is fully empowered under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) of 2018 to receive, assess, and investigate matters brought before it.

The court’s decision reinforces the Commission’s mandate to ensure corporate accountability and protect the rights of the Nigerian public.

The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, hailed the verdict as a victory for regulatory clarity and fair market practices.

He explained that the legal dispute originated from numerous complaints regarding cancelled flights and unrefunded ticket fares.

Mr. Bello emphasized that consumers are entitled to transparency and redress, noting that an investigation is a standard administrative process designed to establish facts and ensure due process.

While reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to engaging businesses in a professional and transparent manner, Mr. Bello urged service providers to maintain effective internal resolution systems.

He stressed that the FCCPC will continue to act within its mandate to strengthen confidence in essential sectors, particularly aviation, by ensuring that the interests of Nigerian consumers remain protected.