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FCCPC warns transport operators against arbitrary fare hikes during the yuletide travel period
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Consumer complaints rise nationwide as inter-city fares increase despite fuel price reductions in some areas
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Commission threatens sanctions for unfair pricing, poor disclosure, and exploitative practices
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has cautioned inter-city road transport operators against arbitrary and unexplained fare hikes during the ongoing yuletide travel season, following a surge in consumer complaints nationwide.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, acknowledged that seasonal demand and operational pressures could influence transport costs, but stressed that commuters are entitled to clear, accurate and timely information on fares before travelling.
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According to the FCCPC, any adjustment in transport fares must be transparently communicated and fairly applied to avoid exploiting consumers.
“The Commission recognises that seasonal demand, operational pressures and other legitimate cost factors may affect transport pricing. However, consumers have a right to clear and accurate information on fares before travel, and any increase must be transparently disclosed,” the statement said.
The FCCPC noted that the warning comes amid reports of reductions in the pump price of premium motor spirit in some parts of the country, adding that while fuel cost is only one of several factors influencing fares, sudden or poorly explained increases raise serious consumer protection concerns.
The advisory follows reports of sharply increased transport fares as Nigerians travel for the yuletide, particularly on routes to the South-East, despite prevailing security concerns on major highways.
Commenting on the development, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, said the Commission was closely monitoring market conduct during the festive period and had intensified engagement with transport unions, park managers and operators across the country.
Bello explained that the engagements were preventive, aimed at promoting responsible pricing practices, voluntary compliance and orderly market behaviour.
He clarified that fare increases are not illegal in themselves, but warned that practices that exploit consumers or take unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand could attract regulatory scrutiny under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018.
The FCCPC warned that operators found engaging in inadequate fare disclosure, coercion or coordinated pricing arrangements detrimental to consumers would face strict regulatory action and penalties.
Consumers were advised to confirm fares before travel, keep evidence of payment and report suspected unfair practices through the Commission’s complaint portal or designated hotlines.
