The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has cautioned inter-city road transport operators against arbitrary and unjustified fare increases during the ongoing yuletide travel season, following a spike in consumer complaints across several parts of the country.
In a statement issued on Sunday by Ondaje Ijagwu, director, Corporate Affairs, the Commission acknowledged that seasonal demand, operational pressures and other legitimate cost factors could affect transport pricing. However, it stressed that consumers are entitled to clear, accurate and timely information on fares before embarking on their journeys.
According to the FCCPC, any adjustment in transport fares must be transparently communicated and fairly applied, warning that unexplained increases undermine consumer rights and confidence.
The Commission noted that the complaints were emerging at a time when there have been reports of reductions in the pump price of premium motor spirit in some parts of the country. While fuel cost is only one of several inputs that influence transport fares, the FCCPC said fare increases that are not properly disclosed or justified raise valid consumer protection concerns.
Commenting on the development, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr Tunji Bello, said the Commission is closely monitoring market conduct throughout the festive period.
He disclosed that the FCCPC has intensified engagements with transport unions, park managers and operators nationwide as part of preventive efforts to encourage responsible pricing practices, voluntary compliance and orderly market behaviour.
Mr Bello clarified that fare increases are not unlawful in themselves. However, he warned that conduct which exploits consumers or takes unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand could attract regulatory action under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
He added that practices such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercive behaviour, or coordinated pricing arrangements among operators to the detriment of consumers would be subjected to strict regulatory scrutiny. Where violations are established, he said, offenders would face stiff penalties in line with the law.
The FCCPC advised travellers to always confirm fares before commencing trips, retain proof of payment and promptly report any suspected unfair practices to the Commission.
It urged consumers to lodge complaints through the FCCPC complaint portal at complaints.fccpc.gov.ng or via the hotlines 08056003030 and 08056002020.
