The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a stern warning to inter-city road transport operators, cautioning them against arbitrary fare hikes during the ongoing yuletide travel season.
The move follows a noticeable surge in consumer complaints nationwide, raising concerns over transparency, fairness, and adherence to consumer protection standards.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, emphasised that while legitimate factors such as seasonal demand and operational costs can influence pricing, consumers are entitled to clear and accurate fare information prior to travel.
Any adjustment in fares, he stressed, must be transparent and applied fairly to avoid exploitation.
“The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has cautioned inter-city road transport operators against arbitrary and unexplained fare increases during the ongoing yuletide travel period,” the statement read.
“Consumers must receive clear, timely, and accurate fare information before embarking on journeys.”
Seasonal Factors and Consumer Rights
The FCCPC acknowledged that fuel prices, vehicle maintenance, and operational pressures naturally affect transport fares.
However, unexplained or sudden fare hikes, particularly during peak travel periods, are seen as potential breaches of consumer rights.
With recent reductions in premium motor spirit (PMS) prices across parts of the country, the Commission emphasised that transport operators must adjust fares responsibly and transparently.
The advisory comes amid widespread reports of elevated road transport fares, particularly for trips to the South-East, despite prevailing security concerns along major highways.
Checks conducted over the past few days indicated a surge in ticket purchases at major transport companies, even as prices climbed significantly compared to last year.
This situation underscores the need for regulatory vigilance to protect consumers against exploitative practices.
FCCPC’s Proactive Measures
Commenting on the directive, FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and CEO Tunji Bello explained that the Commission is closely monitoring market conduct during the festive season.
Bello noted that ongoing engagements with transport unions, park managers, and operators aim to promote responsible pricing practices, voluntary compliance, and orderly market behavior.
“Price increases are not illegal per se. However, any conduct that exploits consumers or takes unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand could attract regulatory scrutiny under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018,” Bello explained.
The Commission is particularly concerned with inadequate fare disclosure, coercion, and coordinated pricing schemes that undermine consumer welfare.
Consumer Guidance and Complaint Channels
To empower consumers, the FCCPC has advised travellers to verify fares before embarking on journeys, keep evidence of payments, and report suspected unfair practices promptly.
Complaints can be submitted via the Commission’s online portal at complaints.fccpc.gov.ng or through dedicated hotlines 0805 600 3030 and 0805 600 2020.
“Consumers should not hesitate to report operators who impose arbitrary fares or engage in unfair practices. The Commission is committed to enforcing the law and ensuring market transparency,” Bello added.
Ensuring Fair Competition and Market Transparency
The FCCPC, established under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018, is mandated to safeguard consumer rights, promote fair competition, and ensure market transparency.
During seasonal travel periods, particularly at yuletide, complaints of fare exploitation have historically risen in Nigeria’s road transport sector, prompting the Commission to issue timely advisories.
As the festive travel season continues, the FCCPC’s warning serves as a critical reminder to operators that while operational realities can influence fares, transparency, fairness, and accountability must never be compromised.
Consumers, on their part, are encouraged to remain vigilant and informed about their rights, ensuring that inter-city travel remains both safe and reasonably priced.
Broader Implications for the Transport Sector
The Commission’s advisory not only safeguards consumer interests but also promotes trust and integrity within the transport industry.
By insisting on transparent pricing and responsible market conduct, the FCCPC aims to prevent market distortions and reinforce confidence in Nigeria’s regulatory framework.
Such measures are particularly significant during peak travel periods, where high demand could otherwise be exploited to the detriment of consumers.
As the yuletide season progresses, the spotlight remains on transport operators to comply with the FCCPC’s directive.
Those who fail to adhere to fair pricing and transparency standards risk strict regulatory action, including fines and other penalties.
By adhering to these guidelines, operators can ensure smooth operations, satisfied customers, and a competitive, ethical market environment.
