FCCPC uncovers scam as local rice is rebranded and sold as foreign
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has uncovered a deceptive scheme in Abuja’s Utako market, where local rice is being rebagged and sold as imported brands like Mama Gold, which hasn’t imported into Nigeria since 2015.
During a raid on at least 10 shops, FCCPC officials found sacks of local rice falsely labeled as foreign to exploit Nigerians’ preference for imported products. Traders caught in the act claimed the goods were old stock, but the FCCPC dismissed these claims.
“This is deliberate fraud,” said Boladale Adeyinka, Director of Surveillance. “People are paying more, thinking they’re buying imported rice.”
Seized products are now evidence in an ongoing investigation, and affected traders may face fines, penalties, or prosecution. The FCCPC is also going after suppliers of illegal branded bags used for the deception.
The commission urged traders to buy only from licensed mills and warned consumers to be alert, especially during the Easter rice demand surge. Market surveillance will continue nationwide.
