Yuletide: FCCPC Warns Against Arbitrary Fare Hikes

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a stern warning to inter-city road transport operators against arbitrary fare increases during the ongoing yuletide travel period, following a spike in consumer complaints nationwide.

A statement on Sunday by the commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, emphasised that while seasonal demand and operational costs can legitimately influence fares, consumers have a right to clear, accurate, and timely information before embarking on any journey. Any fare adjustment, he said, must be transparent and fairly applied.

The statement read, “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, following a surge in consumer complaints across several parts of the country.

“The commission recognises that 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 FCCPC also notes that these complaints are arising at a time when there are reports of reductions in the pump price of premium motor spirit across parts of the country. While fuel cost is only one of several inputs that may influence transport fares, increases that are not properly explained or disclosed raise valid consumer protection concerns.”

The advisory comes amid reports of reduced pump prices for premium motor spirit in some parts of the country. While fuel costs are just one factor affecting fares, unexplained or sudden price hikes raise serious consumer protection concerns, the Commission noted.

It was reported that Nigerians travelling for the Yuletide, particularly to the South-East, are snapping up road transport tickets at sharply increased prices despite security concerns, including fears of kidnapping along major highways.

Checks over the past few days revealed a rush for seats at major transport companies, even as fares climbed far above last year’s levels. This comes against the backdrop of heightened insecurity on inter-state roads and economic pressures.

Commenting, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, said the Commission is closely monitoring market conduct during the festive season and has intensified engagements with transport unions, park managers, and operators across Nigeria.

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

He clarified that fare 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.

“Price increases are not, in themselves, unlawful. However, conduct that exploits consumers or takes unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand may attract regulatory attention under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018,” he stated.

Bello warned that operators engaging in inadequate fare disclosure, coercion, or coordinated pricing schemes detrimental to consumers would face strict regulatory action and stiff penalties.

Consumers have been advised to confirm fares before travel, keep evidence of payment, and report suspected unfair practices via the Commission’s complaint portal at [complaints.fccpc.gov.ng](http://complaints.fccpc.gov.ng) or through the hotlines 0805 600 3030 and 0805 600 2020.

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.

Seasonal travel periods, particularly during the yuletide, have historically seen complaints of fare exploitation in Nigeria’s road transport sector, prompting regulatory advisories.

SOURCE: The PUNCH