The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has sealed the Abuja office of Contact Tele-performance Company (TLS), a visa processing agency for Italy, France, and Belgium, over serious consumer complaints and an alleged assault on government officials.
The enforcement, which took place on Thursday, followed growing complaints from Nigerians who claimed they paid for visa services that were never delivered. The Commission said it had contacted TLS formally on March 25, 2025, after receiving the complaints, but the company ignored the request for clarification.
According to Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, FCCPC’s Director of Surveillance and Investigations, matters worsened when TLS staff reportedly assaulted both FCCPC and police officers who visited the centre during a lawful investigation. Staff also refused to accept a summons issued by the Commission.
“In view of these serious infractions, the Commission had no option but to seal the premises, as allowed by law,” Adeyinka said, citing Section 18(1)(f) of the FCCPC Act.
TLS operations have now been suspended indefinitely, pending further investigation. Adeyinka confirmed that top officials, including the country and centre managers, have been ordered to appear before the Commission by 2:00 p.m. on Friday, June 20, 2025. She warned that failure to comply could result in severe penalties—up to three years in prison, a ₦20 million fine, or both.
The FCCPC also urged affected customers to come forward with proof of payment or service failure, assuring them of full support and redress.
Adeyinka said this case should serve as a warning to other service providers across Nigeria, stating that the Commission will not tolerate abuse of consumer rights or obstruction of lawful duties.
