Yuletide: FCCPC Warns Transport Operators Against Arbitrary Fare Hikes

Following a surge in consumer complaints nationwide, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has warned inter-city road transport operators across Nigeria against arbitrary and unexplained increases in transport fares during the yuletide period.

In a statement released on Sunday by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, and shared on the Commission’s official X handle, the FCCPC said it recognised that seasonal demand and operational pressures may influence pricing, but emphasised that consumers are entitled to clear, accurate, and timely information on fares before travel.

“Seasonal demand, operational pressures, and other legitimate cost factors may affect transport pricing. However, consumers are entitled to clear, accurate, and timely information on fares before travel. Any fare adjustment must therefore be transparently communicated and applied fairly,” the Commission stated.

The Commission expressed concern that the complaints were surfacing at a time when there are reports of reductions in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) across parts of the country. It noted that while fuel is only one of several inputs influencing transport costs, unexplained fare increases raised valid consumer protection concerns.

Commenting on the development, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, Mr. Tunji Bello, said the FCCPC was closely monitoring market conduct throughout the festive season and has intensified engagements with transport unions, park managers, and operators nationwide.

“These engagements are preventive in nature and are aimed at encouraging responsible pricing practices, voluntary compliance, and orderly market behaviour,” Bello explained.

He clarified that while price increases are not inherently unlawful, any conduct that exploits consumers or takes unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand could attract regulatory attention under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

“Practices such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercive conduct, or coordinated pricing arrangements among operators to the detriment of consumers will be subject to strict regulatory scrutiny. Where cases of violation are established, culprits face stiff penalties,” Bello warned.

The FCCPC urged consumers to confirm fares before travel, retain evidence of payment, and report any suspected unfair practices through its complaint portal at complaints.fccpc.gov.ng or via their hotlines.