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FCCPC Shuts Abuja Visa Centre Over Abuse, Rights Violations

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has shut down Contact Teleperformance Company (TLC), a visa processing agency in Abuja, amid serious allegations of consumer abuse and interference with regulatory investigations.

Led by Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, Director of Surveillance and Investigations, the FCCPC team sealed the premises following multiple complaints of misconduct, including the mistreatment of applicants and the obstruction of official inquiries. The agency’s actions mark a significant escalation in efforts to curb exploitation in Nigeria’s visa services sector.

TLC is accused of levying excessive charges, offering substandard services, and allegedly assaulting security officers who attempted to investigate the complaints. The FCCPC described these practices as gross violations of consumer rights and vowed to intensify oversight on similar operators across the country.

Visa centres like TLC are expected to simplify the visa application process, offering expert assistance to Nigerians navigating foreign travel requirements. However, many have turned into profit-driven hubs preying on the desperation of applicants—charging outrageous fees and delivering poor service.

The Commission’s enforcement action sends a strong signal to the industry: abusive and dishonest practices will no longer be tolerated. The move also highlights the FCCPC’s commitment to enforcing fair competition and safeguarding public interest in sectors that directly affect citizens’ welfare.

Across Nigeria, a growing number of private agencies have emerged offering expedited visa services. While some are legitimate, others operate unethically—falsifying documents, issuing fraudulent visas, and exploiting vulnerable applicants. The FCCPC’s crackdown is part of a broader initiative to restore transparency and trust in this sensitive industry.

Nigerians are urged to exercise caution when dealing with visa service providers, verify their legitimacy, and report any misconduct to the appropriate authorities. With this enforcement action, the FCCPC reiterates its pledge to hold violators accountable and protect Nigerian consumers from exploitation.


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