The Ondo State Competition and Consumer Protection Agency has warned Non-Governmental Organisations operating in the state against allegedly posing as officials of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission and extorting traders.
The agency said it had received complaints about groups allegedly visiting shops, supermarkets and markets, demanding payments from business owners under the guise of FCCPC registration or consumer protection levies.
In a statement issued on Friday by its Executive Chairman, Mr Oluyemi Fasipe, the agency said such activities were not authorised and could amount to extortion, fraud and criminal impersonation.
Fasipe explained that the FCCPC was a Federal Government agency established under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, stressing that only properly authorised personnel bearing valid identification could carry out official activities on behalf of the commission.
He added that the ODCCPA was the legally recognised state agency responsible for competition and consumer protection matters in Ondo State under the Ondo State Competition and Consumer Protection Law, 2026.
The chairman warned that individuals or organisations found impersonating either the FCCPC or ODCCPA, or collecting money in their names without authorisation, would be handed over to law enforcement agencies for investigation and possible prosecution.
He urged traders, supermarket operators, market leaders, Iyalojas, Babalojas and other members of the public to be wary of anyone demanding money while claiming to represent the FCCPC or ODCCPA.
Fasipe advised residents who encounter such persons or organisations to report them to the ODCCPA office or the nearest police station. Complaints can also be made directly to the Executive Chairman on 0706 287 7740.
The agency further stated that legitimate enforcement operations involving the FCCPC in Ondo State would be conducted in collaboration with the appropriate authorities and communicated through recognised official channels.
It assured businesses and consumers across the state that it remained committed to promoting a transparent marketplace and protecting them from intimidation, harassment and unlawful charges.