From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has observed that the continuing disruptions in online banking services across the country have impacted negatively both individuals and businesses.
These disruptions, according to the Commission, have hindered customers from accessing their funds and carrying out essential transactions. Warning banks against violation of customers” rights.
In a statement signed and issued to newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja by the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, MMrTunji Bello said his Commission is currently reviewing the situation to determine if consumers rights to redress are being upheld and if more action is needed to enforce accountability.
He said his Commission is also working with relevant regulatory authorities, financial institutions and other stakeholders to address these disruptions and ensure the protection of customers. Assuring that the Commission will pursue all necessary actions to ensure the protection of the FCCPA aisuupheld
According to FCCPC Boss, “PAccording to Sections 17(j), (l) (s), 116 (2), 124, 125, 138 and 155 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) is deeply concerned about the continuing disruptions in online banking services across Nigeria.
“These disruptions, which have hindered customers from accessing their funds, making payments, and carrying out essential transactions, have negatively impacted millions and have serious implications for individuals and businesses alike,”he stated.
Mr. Bello explained that under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, bank customers have specific rights to guarantee fair and accountable service delivery and a key provision is the right to quality service, which mandates that all service providers, including banks, maintain acceptable levels of functionality and reliability.
He said when banks cannot maintain access to essential financial services, they are arguably failing to meet this standard, potentially leading to significant financial hardship, loss of trust in the banking system, and damage to the overall economy.
He said the CCPA further grants consumers the right to reasonable access to goods and services—a principle that is compromised when technical failures impede customers’ access to their goods.
He said that at a time when Nigeria’s economy is increasingly cashless, online banking is no longer a mere convenience but a necessity and interruptions that impede consumers from engaging in transactions or accessing essential funds are not only an inconvenience, but they may also be a violation of this right.
“Service providers are required by the FCCPA to be transparent and communicate with customers openly and accurately. During a service disruption, banks must keep their customers fully informed about the causes, scope, and anticipated duration of any service issues.
“Regrettably, many consumers are left in the dark, a situation that increases frustration and leaves customers feeling unsupported.
“The FCCPA allows consumers to seek redress for services that do not meet the necessary standards. As such, bank customers can seek redress, if they are adversely affected by substandard services.
The FCCPC is currently reviewing the situation to determine if consumers’ rights to redress are being upheld and if more action is needed to enforce accountability.
“The FCCPC is actively working with relevant regulatory authorities, financial institutions, and stakeholders to address these disruptions and ensure the protection of customers.
The Commission will pursue all necessary actions to ensure the protections of the FCCPA are upheld.
“The Commission assures affected bank customers that their concerns are being taken seriously. We urge banks and financial institutions to take swift action to restore services, prioritise customer support, and enhance communication to manage customer expectations transparently and responsibly.
“Consumers have the option to reach out to the FCCPC through the following channels to report complaints:
Website: www.fccpc.gov.ng
Email: contact@fccpc.gov.ng
“We are committed to safeguarding the rights of Nigerian consumers and making certain that every service provider adheres to the statutory mandates provided in the FCCPA 2018. We thank the public for their patience and understanding as we work to end this hardship,” Mr Tunji further assured.
