The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) says it has summoned Erisco Foods Limited for allegedly arresting a dissatisfied consumer for her negative review of one of their products.

FCCPC’s executive vice-chairman, Babatunde Irukera, said on his X on Tuesday that the commission’s operatives had confirmed the consumer’s arrest.

“@fccpcnigeria operatives have confirmed arrest & transfer of the case to Abuja by the Police Force. She was no longer at the station on arrival,” FCCPC stated. “Working to determine exact current location & engaging Force HQ in Abuja. Summons being issued to @EriscoFoodsLtd immediately.”

Chioma Egodi Jnr., on September 17, expressed her dissatisfaction on Facebook after using Nagiko Tomato Mix, one of Erisco Foods’ products.

Mr Irukera said summoning Erisco Foods was to get an explanation from the company. 

“This is to ensure that businesses are not engaging in conduct that creates a chilling effect on legitimate citizens’ expressions. Indeed, the author of a public statement owes a certain level of obligation for the truth and veracity of their statements,” the FCCPC said.

He added, “There are legally accepted thresholds for fairness and fair speech which are constitutionally protected. Erisco Foods’ prerogative to refute a claim such as this is inviolate. And where they consider a statement sufficiently outrageous and a violation of law or their rights, bringing it to the attention of a ‘relevant authority’ is permissible.”

Mr Irukera said further, “Erisco, however, should not seek or facilitate the arrest of a citizen for statements they consider prejudicial.”

Meanwhile, Erisco Foods, in a statement, said it would take all necessary actions against any malicious attack on its reputation.

The company described the claim as untrue and unfounded in its entirety. 

(NAN)