The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned traders in Lagos to stop displaying or enforcing “no return, no refund” policies, describing the practice as illegal under Nigerian law.
The caution was delivered by the agency’s Southwest Zonal Coordinator, Dr. Olubunmi Otti, during the inauguration of new executives of the Phone and Allied Products Dealers Association (PAPDA) in Lagos.
Otti noted that many sellers continue to disregard provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, which protects consumers against unfair trade practices. She said the commission has intensified its market sensitisation campaigns to remind businesses of their obligations and educate consumers about their rights.
According to her, traders cannot refuse to accept the return of defective goods or deny refunds when products fail to perform as promised. She stressed that the law does not recognise “no return, no refund” in cases where goods are faulty or unfit for purpose. In such situations, consumers are entitled to remedies including replacement, exchange, or a full refund.
Otti explained that the commission typically resolves disputes through mediation between buyers and sellers. However, she warned that repeated violations could attract tougher sanctions such as fines, seizure of goods, prosecution, or even closure of non-compliant businesses.
She called on market leaders to promote compliance among their members in order to protect consumer confidence and ensure fair competition. The awareness campaign, she added, will also cover major trading centres in the Southwest, including Alaba Market and the Trade Fair Complex.
Encouraging consumers to speak up, Otti revealed that the commission handles thousands of complaints monthly in the region and urged affected buyers to report any infringement of their rights to the FCCPC for appropriate action.
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