By Anietie Akpan
The Member representing Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency, Cross River State, in the House of Representatives, Hon. Bassey Akiba has called on lawmakers in the country to advocate for policies that empower consumers, promote transparency, and foster fair competition.
In his message dated March 15, to mark the World Consumer Rights Day 2025, Akiba said, “in every corner of our society, consumers form the backbone of our economy. Their voices, choices, and rights shape the marketplace, and it is imperative that we honour and protect them.
“it is our duty as legislators to advocate for policies that empower consumers, promote transparency, and foster fair competition. We must work tirelessly to build an environment where consumers can trust the products they buy and the services they use”.
He said, “together, we can create a future where every citizen has access to the information they need to make informed choices”.
The lawmaker charged everyone, his constituents and fellow advocates, “to join me in this mission. Let us raise our voices against injustice, support initiatives that champion consumer rights, and hold corporations accountable for their actions.
“By standing together, we can transform the marketplace into a fairer, safer, and more equitable space for all”.
He stated that as the World Consumer Rights Day 2025 is celebrated with the theme: “A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles, it “highlights the importance of making sustainable options available, affordable, and accessible to all consumers while respecting their needs and rights.
“Today, we stand united to reaffirm our dedication to four fundamental rights: the right to safety, the right to be informed, the right to choose, and the right to be heard.
“Our struggles as consumers often echo the challenges faced in our daily lives. From the rising costs of essential goods to the complexities of navigating legal protections, too many consumers find themselves vulnerable and uninformed”.
As the day is celebrated, Akiba said, “let us remember those who have faced exploitation and ensure that their experiences guide our actions”.
