HURIWA Hails Court Ruling Affirming FCCPC Powers, Seeks Crackdown on Airline Abuses

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has applauded a recent Federal High Court judgment affirming the authority of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), describing it as a landmark victory for Nigerian consumers, particularly in the aviation sector.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko, the group said the ruling represents a “historic and long-overdue liberation” for passengers who have endured years of exploitation by domestic airlines.

HURIWA noted that the court’s decision reinforces the powers of the FCCPC under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 to investigate and act on consumer complaints, including disputes involving major carriers such as Air Peace Limited.

The association said the judgment has effectively “shattered the culture of corporate impunity” in the aviation industry, stressing that consumer rights must be treated as enforceable legal guarantees rather than optional privileges.

Allegations of Widespread Passenger Exploitation

The group outlined what it described as a pattern of systemic abuse against Nigerian air travelers, including exploitative pricing during peak travel periods, arbitrary flight cancellations, and prolonged delays in ticket refunds.

Other concerns raised include mishandling and loss of luggage, ticket racketeering by alleged insiders, and poor customer service systems that frustrate passengers seeking redress.

“These violations are not isolated incidents but reflect a deeply entrenched disregard for consumer welfare,” HURIWA stated, adding that such practices amount to economic injustice and erode public trust in the aviation sector.

Criticism of Regulatory Institutions

HURIWA also expressed disappointment in the performance of regulatory bodies such as the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria and the Federal Ministry of Aviation, accusing them of failing to effectively protect passengers.

According to the group, weak enforcement, bureaucratic bottlenecks, and lack of transparency have allowed erring airlines to operate without consequences, leaving the FCCPC as the “last credible line of defense” for consumers.

Call for Strong Enforcement

While welcoming the court ruling, HURIWA stressed that its real impact would depend on strict enforcement. The group urged the FCCPC to deploy its full powers to investigate and sanction violations across the aviation sector.

It called for the imposition of heavy fines, compensation for affected passengers, and operational sanctions against defaulting airlines. The group also recommended the creation of fast-track complaint resolution systems and the establishment of airport-based enforcement units.

In addition, HURIWA advocated for transparent and automated refund processes, as well as regular publication of compliance reports to enhance accountability.

Demand for Legislative Action

The association further called on the National Assembly to strengthen oversight and introduce tougher penalties for consumer rights violations, particularly in critical sectors like aviation.

“This judgment has opened a new chapter in the protection of Nigerian consumers,” the statement added. “It must be followed by decisive action to end exploitation and impunity in the industry.”

HURIWA reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring developments in the sector, insisting that Nigerians deserve an aviation system built on fairness, transparency, and respect for consumer rights.