ODCCPA Exposes NGOs Extorting Ondo Traders, Impersonating FCCPC

The Ondo State Competition and Consumer Protection Agency (ODCCPA) has issued a stern caution to non-governmental organisations accused of posing as officials of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). These groups are reportedly extorting traders and unlawfully shutting down business operations throughout the state.

Oluyemi Fasipe, the agency's Executive Chairman, conveyed this warning via a statement posted on his X handle last Friday. This action comes after several reports emerged detailing NGOs allegedly impersonating FCCPC personnel to demand payments from merchants and business proprietors.

Mr. Fasipe revealed that these organisations are purportedly collecting funds by falsely claiming they are for “FCCPC registration” and a “consumer protection levy.” He condemned these actions as entirely illegitimate, stating that individuals caught impersonating officials from either the FCCPC or ODCCPA, or illegally soliciting funds on behalf of these bodies, would face investigation and prosecution by law enforcement agencies.

Fasipe emphasized, “No NGO is authorised to act or present itself as the FCCPC. Only duly authorised FCCPC officials with valid means of identification are permitted to conduct official activities on behalf of the Commission.” He further clarified the mandates of both organisations: the FCCPC operates as a Federal Government entity, established by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, whereas the ODCCPA is vested with legal authority over competition and consumer protection issues within Ondo State, as per the Ondo State Competition and Consumer Protection Law, 2026.

The Chairman instructed all groups implicated in these alleged practices to cease immediately. He reiterated that the Ondo State government would not condone acts of impersonation, extortion, harassment, or any conduct designed to deceive the public and impede lawful commercial activities. He appealed to supermarket proprietors, market union leaders, Iyalojas, Babalojas, traders, and the general populace to report any individual asserting to be an FCCPC official or requesting payments on behalf of the commission. Such reports, he advised, should be made to the ODCCPA office or the closest police station. For direct complaints to his office, he provided the contact number: 0706 287 7740.

Mr. Fasipe also clarified that any authorized collaborative operation or enforcement effort between the ODCCPA and FCCPC within Ondo State would be meticulously coordinated with appropriate authorities and announced via official communication channels. He reassured traders, business owners, and consumers of the agency's steadfast dedication to safeguarding their rights and fostering an equitable, secure, and transparent market environment. Finally, he implored residents to exercise caution and refrain from making payments to any individuals or entities whose legitimacy to represent either the FCCPC or ODCCPA could not be independently confirmed.