Human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, has faulted the involvement of law enforcement in consumer disputes, insisting that the police have no legal basis to arrest Nigerians for expressing dissatisfaction with products they have purchased.
Speaking during an interview on Channels, monitored by The News Chronicle, Effiong criticized what he described as a growing pattern of arbitrary arrests targeting consumers who publicly call out substandard goods and services.
He warned that such actions represent a troubling misuse of police powers and a direct threat to citizens’ rights to free expression.
According to him, attempts to criminalize honest consumer feedback not only undermine accountability but also embolden manufacturers and service providers to evade responsibility for poor quality. He stressed that the role of the police should not extend to shielding businesses from criticism, particularly in a democratic society where transparency and consumer protection are essential.
Effiong further urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and assert their rights, noting that public feedback plays a critical role in maintaining standards across industries.
However, he cautioned that such criticism must be grounded in verifiable facts to avoid the spread of misinformation or potential legal disputes.
“Nigerians who purchase any product and are dissatisfied should not only complain but also expose the brand publicly. In doing so, they must ensure their claims are accurate and based on facts.” He added.
