A civic organization, Citizens Gavel, has accused food company Erisco Foods Limited of using the police to harass and intimidate a customer, Chioma Blessing Edoka, who posted a negative review of one of its products on Facebook
In a statement on its verified Twitter handle, Citizens Gavel alleged that Chioma was arrested by the police on September 24th, 2023, one week after sharing concerns over a tin of Nagiko tomato mix she had purchased.
According to the group, Erisco Foods escalated the situation extraordinarily by involving the police force instead of constructively addressing the customer’s grievances. They described Erisco’s actions as reprehensible, arguing it was a potential violation of Chioma’s constitutional right to freedom of expression.
Citizens Gavel condemned the use of law enforcement to settle civil disputes, stating it undermines public trust in the police and judicial system. They called on the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission to investigate the matter as a violation of consumer rights.
The statement reminded that consumers have a right to freely express their views on products and services. It reiterated that Chioma committed no crime beyond posting an honest review, which makes her arrest highly questionable.
Citizens Gavel urged corporate organizations to embrace constructive feedback and dialogue with dissatisfied customers rather than resorting to intimidation tactics involving the police.
The revelations have generated concerns around abuse of police powers and disregard for consumer rights in Nigeria. Many argue that Chioma’s arrest establishes a dangerous precedent of suppressing critical reviews through law enforcement.
Citizens Gavel says Erisco Foods’ actions betray the principles of responsible corporate conduct. The civic group insists that the police and consumer protection agencies must take action to forestall such violations in the future.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned Erisco Foods Limited following the arrest of customer Chioma Blessing Edoka.
Edoka was detained by Erisco Foods with police assistance over a Facebook post reviewing one of the company’s products. The arrest occurred on September 24th as confirmed by civic group Citizens Gavel.
In a statement, Citizens Gavel condemned Erisco for escalating a civil consumer complaint into a criminal matter with police involvement.
FCCPC Chief Executive Babatunde Irukera verified Edoka’s arrest and transfer of her case to Abuja by the police. He revealed FCCPC operatives could not find her at the initial station upon arrival.
Irukera added that the agency is working to determine Edoka’s exact location and engaging Force Headquarters on the case. Meanwhile, FCCPC has immediately summoned Erisco Foods over the situation.
The FCCPC action signifies intolerance for weaponizing law enforcement against consumers voicing grievances. The company faces tough questioning and potential sanctions for its heavy-handed response rather than constructive customer service.
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