The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has sealed the Abuja offices of TLS Contact, a visa processing agency representing France, Belgium, and Italy, following serious allegations of consumer rights violations and assault on federal officers.
According to Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, Director of Surveillance and Investigations at the FCCPC, the agency took action after TLS repeatedly obstructed an ongoing investigation into complaints over non-performance of prepaid visa services.
What Prompted the Sealing?
The FCCPC launched its investigation into TLS Contact in March 2025, after receiving multiple consumer complaints regarding non-provision of paid visa processing services.
Rather than cooperate, TLS agents reportedly assaulted FCCPC personnel and police officers who were present to deliver a letter of summons on March 25.
The situation escalated when TLS officials refused to accept legal summons and obstructed federal operatives during a follow-up visit.
Legal Basis for Closure
Acting under Section 18(1)(f) of the FCCPC Act, Executive Vice Chairman Tunji Bello ordered the immediate sealing of the premises, citing strong evidence that the agency’s activities were “inimical to consumer welfare.”
Adeyinka warned TLS management that failure to respond to the Commission’s summons by 2:00 PM, June 20, 2025, would lead to further legal action.
“Obstructing or refusing FCCPC summons is a punishable offense,” Adeyinka said.
“This includes up to three years imprisonment, ₦20 million in fines, or both under Sections 33(3) and 33(4) of the Act.”
Allegations and Next Steps
- TLS is accused of failing to deliver visa services for which customers paid in advance.
- Agents allegedly physically assaulted FCCPC and security officers during lawful operations.
- The company refused multiple formal communications, including summonses and investigative queries.
Affected consumers are encouraged to submit complaints and documentation to the FCCPC to support ongoing investigations.
Implications for Visa Applicants
The sealed TLS office handled visa processing for France, Belgium, and Italy—countries frequently visited by Nigerians for education, business, and tourism. The shutdown may disrupt appointments and travel plans for applicants relying on their services.
FCCPC’s Message to Service Providers
This action, Adeyinka emphasized, serves as a warning to all service providers:
“No organisation, no matter how international or connected, is above Nigerian consumer protection laws.”
The FCCPC reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance toward service denial, exploitation, or obstruction of lawful investigations.
