Introduction:
In today’s Nigerian parlance, “what I ordered vs. what I got” is more than just a viral meme. It’s a hilarious but frustrating cry from thousands of consumers who have experienced the ugly side of modern-day commerce, especially in the age of online shopping. For instance, clothes that look nothing like the pictures and phones that stop working after one week, or services that leave you wondering if you’ve been scammed. Every “what I got” moment reflects a deeper crack in consumer protection and awareness.
However, beneath the jokes is a serious issue: consumer rights and responsibilities. Let’s unpack this the Nigerian way.
Every consumer in Nigeria is entitled to a basic set of rights that protect them from exploitation and substandard products or services. These rights aren’t just wishful thinking; they are backed by legislation, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), 2018.
Key overview of the rights:
“Fit for Purpose”
This isn’t just a fancy phrase. When you buy a product, the law expects it to be fit for the purpose for which it was bought. This means if you buy a blender, it should blend properly! If it stops working shortly after purchase or is clearly defective, you should seek a refund, replacement, or repair. Don’t let a seller tell you “all sales are final” if the product is faulty.
Misleading Ads: That dazzling advertisement promising incredible results for a product: If the product doesn’t deliver on those promises, or if there are hidden charges you weren’t told about, that’s misleading advertising. You have a right to accurate information. If you’re misled, you may have grounds to seek redress.
Services Should Be Rendered With Care.
Whether it’s a tailor, a mechanic, or an internet service provider, you pay for a service to be rendered with reasonable care and skill. If the job is botched, incomplete, or below standard, you’re not just out of luck. You can demand that the service be corrected or seek appropriate compensation.
Right to Choose: You should have access to different brands, prices, and options without being pressured or manipulated. Monopoly is not just for business; it’s for consumers.
Right to Information: That picture on the website and the product label must accurately reflect what’s inside. No false claims, no fine print scams. Transparency is your right.
Right to Be Heard: Whether you bought from a mega retailer or a roadside stall, your complaints must be heard and acted upon satisfactorily. Consumers ‘ voice MUST be heard.
Right to Redress. You’re entitled to a refund, replacement, or compensation. “No refund after payment” is illegal.
Consumer Responsibilities: What You Should Also Bring to the Table
It’s not just about pointing fingers. As a consumer, you also have duties that help keep the system fair and functional:
Do your research and be informed. Read reviews. Ask questions. Don’t be swayed by filters and fancy packaging. ”Shiny things are no guarantee.”
Don’t suffer in silence. If your “what I got” is a complete disaster, report it to agencies like the FCCPC, NAFDAC, SON, and NCC for redress.
Keep Records: Screenshots, receipts, and email confirmations—these can make or break your complaint. Always protect yourself with evidence.
Avoid Impulse Buying: That 50% discount might be a bait. Always verify the vendor, especially online. When in doubt, don’t buy.
Respect Others’ Rights: Don’t demand illegal favours. Don’t harass service providers. Let fairness go both ways.
Remedies when things go south?
Complain to the Seller/Service Provider First: Always start by clearly stating your displeasure to the business.
Escalate if Necessary: If the business isn’t responsive, don’t hesitate to take your complaint further. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) is your national watchdog. It’s empowered to intervene and help consumers get justice.
On a final note, when next time you see a viral “what I ordered vs. what I got” post, don’t just laugh; ask questions. That story reflects someone’s consumer rights being violated, and it’s a conversation worth having.
Let’s move beyond the memes and start demanding accountability: better service, better products and better protection. After all, you didn’t order disappointment so why should you accept it? Every “what I got” MUST finally match “what I ordered.”