The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has taken legal steps against Qatar Airways and four of its top officials, accusing them of violating Nigeria’s consumer protection laws.
The commission announced that the airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr Temi Birdzell, along with three senior staff members, will be arraigned on October 7 before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja. The other accused persons are Stella Ihediwa, Account Manager; Kennedy Chirchir, Country Manager; and Eva Ojeje, Sales Manager.
Although the arraignment was earlier scheduled for Tuesday, June 24, it could not go ahead because the defendants were not present in court. The FCCPC’s lawyer, Chizenum Nsitem, told the court that they were only able to serve the company and not the individual officers. He asked for more time to complete the process.
The judge granted the request and adjourned the case to October 7 for the defendants to appear and enter their pleas.
According to court documents, the FCCPC filed a three-count charge against Qatar Airways and its officers. The commission alleges that the accused failed to obey a lawful summons sent to them on September 6, 2024. They are also accused of refusing to provide requested documents on September 18, 2024.
The FCCPC claims these actions violate sections 33(3), 111, and 124(1) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018. The charges could lead to serious penalties if the court finds them guilty.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the commission’s action is part of its effort to ensure that multinational companies operating in Nigeria respect consumer rights and follow Nigerian laws.
