ANALYSING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE FEDERAL COMPETITION AND CONSUMER PROTECTION ACT 2018 IN THE PROTECTION OF CONSUMERS IN ELECTRONIC COMMERCE

Abstract

This study critically examines the effectiveness of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 in safeguarding Nigerian consumers engaged in electronic commerce. An overview of the FCCPA is provided, outlining its statutory framework and intended objectives. The paper adopts a doctrinal research methodology in its analysis, using primary and secondary sources of research materials. The analysis critiques the Act’s provisions for consumer protection in digital transactions, highlighting both strengths and shortcomings. The study also investigates the enforcement mechanisms, focusing on the role of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the judicial options available. Notable successes in enforcement are discussed alongside challenges such as low consumer awareness and prolonged judicial bottlenecks that hinder effective redress. Comparative insights from jurisdictions such as the UK, China and India are examined to suggest potential improvements. This work discovers that the FCCPA does not make provisions addressing e-commerce concerns in consumer protection, as is done in other jurisdictions analysed in this study. This paper offers recommendations for reform of the FCCPA to accommodate e-commerce concerns, as well as staff training on the use of digital technology and appropriate software, among other recommendations.