The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has clarified that increases in transport fares during the festive season are not illegal on their own, but warned that unfair or exploitative practices by road transport operators will attract sanctions.
This clarification was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, following widespread complaints about arbitrary fare hikes by inter-city transport operators across the country.
The FCCPC acknowledged that factors such as increased seasonal demand and higher operating costs can legitimately influence transport prices. However, it stressed that passengers have the right to clear and timely information on fares before travelling, adding that any price adjustment must be transparently communicated and fairly applied.
The Commission also noted that the complaints were coming at a time when pump prices of petrol had reportedly dropped in some parts of the country. While fuel cost is only one of several factors affecting transport fares, the FCCPC said unexplained or poorly communicated increases raise serious consumer protection concerns.
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Speaking on the issue, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, said the Commission is closely monitoring transport operators’ conduct throughout the yuletide period. He added that engagements with transport unions, park managers and operators across the country had been intensified to encourage responsible pricing and voluntary compliance.
Bello explained that although price increases are not unlawful, any action that takes unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand could draw regulatory attention under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018. He warned that practices such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercion of passengers or coordinated price fixing among operators would be strictly scrutinised.
The FCCPC advised travellers to always confirm fares before embarking on trips, keep evidence of payment and report any suspected unfair practices through the Commission’s complaint channels.
