The Nigerian Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal has dismissed a settlement agreement between Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd (CCNL) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), upholding a N186 million penalty imposed on the company for deceptive marketing practices. The Tribunal, in a ruling delivered on April 30, 2025, rejected the terms of settlement, which had been filed by both parties in an attempt to resolve the matter without further legal action.
The penalty was originally levied after the FCCPC accused Coca-Cola of using misleading trade descriptions on its products “Original Taste” and “Less Sugar,” violating the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act. Despite Coca-Cola’s argument that its products were NAFDAC-approved and claims of procedural unfairness, the Tribunal affirmed the FCCPC’s decision, stating that the company had misled consumers, regardless of NAFDAC approval.
The Tribunal further criticized the settlement as legally flawed, stating that it did not align with public interest and was seen as an attempt to circumvent the Tribunal’s jurisdiction. The ruling effectively dismissed Coca-Cola’s appeal and ordered the company to pay the fine within 60 days, emphasizing the need for regulatory action in consumer protection.
