Abuja Supermarket Shut Down Over Price Gouging Amid Food Crisis

ABUJA, (iexclusivenews) –  The Nigerian government has taken a decisive action against a well-known supermarket in Abuja for allegedly exploiting customers by inflating prices of goods.

The move is part of a wider crackdown on hoarding and price fixing of food items in the country, following the President’s order.

Sahad Store Sealed By FCCPC

On Friday, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) sealed off Sahad Store, a popular supermarket in the Garki area of Abuja.

READ MORE:

State Police: A Breakthrough Solution for Nigeria’s Security Crisis

Tinubu’s Son-in-Law Heads Federal Housing Authority in New Appointments

The FCCPC’s Acting Executive Vice Chairman, Adamu Ahmed Abdullahi, led the operation after receiving complaints from customers that the store was charging higher prices than the ones displayed on the shelves, as reported by Daily Trust.

Abdullahi said the commission’s initial investigation confirmed that the store was engaging in unfair and deceptive practices that violated the rights of consumers.

He added that the store would remain closed until the probe is concluded and the appropriate sanctions are imposed.

President Tinubu Orders Clampdown On Food Hoarders

The closure of Sahad Store came barely a day after SaharaReporters revealed that President Bola Tinubu had instructed the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services, and the National Security Adviser to track down and arrest those who were hoarding food items in warehouses across the nation.

The President gave the directive during a meeting with governors on Thursday in Abuja, where he expressed concern over the soaring prices of food items in the market.

He urged the state governments to follow the example of Kano State, which had set up a task force to monitor and regulate the activities of major food traders in the state.

The President’s Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, issued a press statement on Thursday, stating that the President was determined to ensure food security and affordability for all Nigerians.

He appealed to the public to cooperate with the authorities and report any cases of hoarding or price fixing to the FCCPC.