Ticket Refund: Court affirms FCCPC’s powers to investigate consumer complaints against Air Peace

*Tunji Bello, Executive Vice-Chairman and CEO of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, hails the judgement of the Federal High Court, Abuja, in favour of the market regulatory Commission

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has acknowledged the Federal High Court, Abuja, judgement Monday, 20 April 2026, dismissing the suit filed by Air Peace Limited.

ConsumerConnect reports some air passengers recently complained about the airline’s failure to refund flight fares over cancelled flights, and other service concerns affecting consumers.

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The indigenous airline had challenged the Commission’s authority to investigate consumer complaints, and issue summons in the exercise of its statutory mandate.

Delivering the judgement, Justice James Omotoso, affirmed the Commission’s powers under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018 (FCCPA) to receive complaints, assess matters brought before it, and take appropriate lawful steps, including investigation where necessary.

Welcoming the decision, Mr Tunji Bello, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of FCCPC, said the judgment provided useful clarity on the importance of regulatory oversight in protecting consumers and promoting fair market practices.

Bello related the matter arose from complaints relating to unrefunded ticket fares, cancelled flights, and other service concerns affecting passengers.

The EVC/CEO of FCCPC also reiterated that consumers who pay for services are entitled to fair treatment, transparency, and redress in accordance with applicable law.

He further emphasised that investigation is an administrative process intended to establish facts and determine whether further action is warranted.

It does not amount to a finding of liability or wrongdoing.

Bello said emphasised the Commission’s commitment to engaging all market participants in a fair, professional, and transparent manner, while ensuring due process at every stage of its proceedings.

He further encouraged businesses operating in Nigeria to cooperate with lawful regulatory processes and to maintain effective complaint resolution systems that address consumer issues promptly and fairly.

Mr. Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at FCCPC, Monday also stated: “The FCCPC will continue to act within its statutory mandate to protect consumers, promote competitive markets, and strengthen confidence in essential service sectors, including aviation.”

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission is Nigeria’s primary competition and consumer protection authority established under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018.

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