FCCPC Reveals Detailed Explanation Behind Closure of Sahad Stores

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has disclosed the outcome of its investigation into Sahad Stores, a popular shopping mall in Abuja, which was temporarily shut down on Friday. The store's branch in Area 11, Garki, was closed due to consistent discrepancies between the prices displayed on shelves and those charged at the checkout counters, according to the agency.

In a statement released by the acting CEO, Adamu Abdullahi, the FCCPC initiated the investigation on January 8 following complaints about deceptive pricing practices at Sahad Stores branches in Abuja. Despite summoning the store's officials to discuss corrective measures on February 12, they failed to attend, raising concerns of potential violations.

Subsequently, on February 16, FCCPC officials conducted random checks and confirmed that not only did the deceptive pricing persist, but cashiers also had the discretion to set prices, leaving customers vulnerable to unfair charges. As a result, under Section 18(f) of its authority, the Commission temporarily sealed the premises.

However, following assurances from Sahad Stores to implement transparent pricing practices, the store was reopened the same day at 7 p.m.

The FCCPC stressed the importance of transparent pricing to empower consumers and vowed to combat exploitative practices that undermine consumer rights. It emphasized the penalties outlined in Section 115 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 for violations, including fines and imprisonment for directors. The Commission urged all businesses to adhere to fair and transparent pricing practices to ensure consumer protection and a healthy market environment.