The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has affirmed the authority of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to investigate complaints involving medical negligence. Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the ruling on April 15 in a suit filed by Life Bridge Medical Diagnostic Centre Ltd, which had challenged the commission’s jurisdiction over healthcare-related complaints.
The company maintained that the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria had to be consulted before the FCCPC could take any action.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act clearly defines the commission's authority, the court ruled, dismissing the claim.
The presiding judge determined that healthcare services are subject to consumer protection oversight, pointing out that the FCCPC's statutory authority is unaffected by the lack of a formal agreement with another regulator.
FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman Tunji Bello responded to the ruling by stating that it upholds consumer rights in all industries, including healthcare.
He described it as a significant affirmation that consumers are entitled to protection and legal redress wherever services are provided for a fee.
Bello added that the ruling clarifies that professional regulation and consumer protection serve distinct but complementary roles.
He emphasised that the FCCPC does not replace sector regulators but ensures that service providers uphold fairness and legal standards in their dealings with consumers.
