False complaints attract six months’ jail or N500,000 fine – PCC

The Public Complaints Commission, also known as the Ombudsman, has cautioned Nigerians against making false and malicious complaints, threatening those found guilty with imprisonment or a fine of ₦500,000. Alhaji Usman Shehu, the Jigawa State Commissioner of the commission, made this warning during the celebration of the commission's 51st anniversary.

He emphasized that complaints must be based on facts and not used to defame others. The commission, which investigates complaints against government bodies, private companies, and individuals, urges residents of Jigawa State to utilize its services for resolving disputes. However, the commissioner expressed concern over the lack of awareness about the commission's existence and responsibilities among the public, revealing that the commission had received about 1.5 million complaints nationwide, with roughly 740,000 investigated and resolved.