Perspectives on Consumerism and Consumer Protection Act in Nigeria

Abstract

This study focuses on the issues and challenges relating to consumerism and consumer protection in Nigeria, with particular attention to the Consumer Protection Council (CPC) Act 2004. Evidences from available literature indicate that consumerism in Nigeria, like in most Less Developed Countries has remained at the lowest ebb in spite of the prevalence of unwholesome business practices. The Nigerian consumer is thus continuously saddled with substandard goods and services, coupled with the lack of information and limited choice in the market, thus necessitating political/government efforts. In This study, it was observed that although the CPC Act recognized the rights of consumers, it does not specifically provide for these rights as they are merely implied and subsumed into the functions of the council and the state committees established by the Act. We therefore conclude that mere existence of the law is not enough. Specific protective and compensatory measures should be clearly stated for any infringement on any of the consumers’ rights. Doing so would strengthen the CPC Act in Nigeria. Further the Consumer Protection Council need to embark on sustained sensitization of consumers on their rights and also push for the amendment of specific sections of the CPC Act to give aggrieved consumers unfettered access to courts to pursue their rights.

Keywords: Keywords: consumerism, consumer protection, marketing, consumer rights, Nigeria