The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has sealed Vianna Bakery, located in Awka, Anambra State, for failing to comply with food safety and quality standards.
On Friday, the FCCPC’s South-East Zonal Coordinator, Francisca Obialor, led the enforcement action. This operation aimed to address ongoing regulatory issues in the region.
Obialor, responsible for Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Abia, and Ebonyi states, explained that the closure stemmed from persistent concerns since 2022. Despite multiple communication efforts like invitations, reminders, and formal summons, the bakery’s management ignored every attempt to engage them.
“Vianna Bakery has consistently refused to respond to official communications from the FCCPC,” Obialor stated. “This action became necessary after years of non-compliance. We cannot continue to allow a business to operate in ways that could endanger consumers.”
Obialor emphasized that consumer protection remains the commission’s top priority. She warned that the bakery’s operations pose significant potential risks to public health, which cannot be ignored. She explained that shutting down the facility was a last resort, as management failed to cooperate or respond to regulatory correspondence.
“The responsibility for this closure lies squarely with Vianna Bakery’s management,” she stated.
They repeatedly chose not to cooperate, illustrating a disregard for established standards. Obialor added that this action sends a clear message: businesses must comply with regulations or face serious consequences.
Regarding reopening conditions, Obialor stated that Vianna Bakery must report to the FCCPC’s head office in Abuja.
There, the bakery will receive regulatory directives, which they must implement fully before resuming operations.
Efforts to contact Vianna Bakery’s management for comments were unsuccessful, as phone calls went unanswered.
The FCCPC reiterated its commitment to ensuring that businesses across Nigeria comply with food safety and quality standards to protect public health and safety.