The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned that discrimination against any person in Nigeria, whether by foreigners or locals, is illegal and unacceptable.
This warning follows the agency’s investigation into allegations of discrimination at a Chinese supermarket located within the premises of the China General Chamber of Commerce, Airport Road, Abuja.
Director of surveillance and investigations at the FCCPC, Boladale Adeyinka, who led the team said in line with its mandate, the Commission would be swift and decisive in handling such issues and would not hesitate to apply the full force of the law against businesses found culpable.
The investigation was prompted by reports that the supermarket, owned by Cindy Liu Bei, refused to allow Nigerians to shop there.
However, a CCTV footage examined by the agency at the China General Chamber of Commerce building showed that Bei and her family had fled the premises earlier in the day by 8:26 am.
Following the development, the Commission, yesterday, served a notice on Bei to appear before it today by 11 am, warning that failure to comply could lead to regulatory actions, including continuous sealing of the premises.
Reacting to the development, the China Chamber of Commerce has clarified that the supermarket is in a mixed-use estate, not directly associated with the chamber.
The chamber’s secretary, Mr. Cui Guangzheng, expressed regret over the incident and stated that it does not reflect the official position of the estate management or the chamber of commerce.
“The China Chamber of Commerce is one of several enterprises using the facility, and the supermarket in question is located in the residential area of the estate, which is unrelated to the China Chamber of Commerce in Nigeria.
“Our principles are to enhance friendship between the people of both countries and promote economic development,” he said.
Meanwhile, a staff in the estate who pleaded anonymity confirmed to LEADERSHIP that Nigerians had been allowed to shop at the supermarket throughout 2022, but were suddenly banned in January.
The Commission had earlier raided two 4U Signature supermarkets in the Wuse area of Abuja for alleged unfair practices toward customers.
Acting executive vice chairman of the commission, Abdullahi Adamu reiterated the agency’s commitment to safeguarding Nigerians’ health and wealth.
Following the raids, the FCCPC found expired products still being sold and other violations, leading to the closure of the stores until the issues were addressed.