The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has shut down a fraudulent consumer protection outfit and arrested its operator for impersonation.
The FCCPC, working alongside law enforcement agencies, sealed the premises of the Community Crime Prevention Initiative of Nigeria (CCPIN) located at No. 214 Aba-Owerri Road, Aba, Abia State. The group had been falsely claiming affiliation with the FCCPC, misleading the public by presenting itself as an authorised consumer protection NGO.
Director of Corporate Affairs at the FCCPC, Ondaje Ijagwu, stated, “The Commission categorically disassociates itself from CCPIN and affirms that it neither authorizes nor partners with CCPIN or any similarly styled organisation for enforcement or consumer protection operations. We do not delegate such powers to NGOs, private entities, or individuals without formal legal authorisation.”
The enforcement followed credible intelligence indicating that CCPIN issued public notices falsely alleging joint surveillance operations with the FCCPC and solicited consumer complaints through unauthorised phone lines.
During the raid, Dr. Onwuka Okorie, the operator of CCPIN, was arrested on-site and taken into custody at the World Bank Police Station, Abayi-Aba, Abia State. Several items bearing the FCCPC’s name, logo, and counterfeit enforcement documents were recovered from the premises.
Ijagwu further warned the public, “We strongly advise consumers to disregard any announcements, sealing notices, or consumer-related campaigns issued by CCPIN or any of its representatives. Our commitment remains with operating at the highest level of transparency while ensuring consumer protection and market integrity.”
The arrested operator is currently undergoing further investigation and prosecution by law enforcement authorities. The FCCPC reaffirmed its dedication to protecting consumers and maintaining the integrity of the market through legitimate means.