The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has stated that higher transport fares during the festive season are not illegal on their own but cautioned road transport operators against unfair or exploitative pricing practices.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, the FCCPC said the advisory follows a wave of complaints from commuters over sudden and arbitrary fare increases by inter-city transport operators across Nigeria.
The Commission acknowledged that factors such as increased seasonal demand, higher operational costs and other legitimate expenses can influence transport pricing during the yuletide period. However, it stressed that passengers have the right to be clearly and promptly informed of fares before commencing their journeys.
According to the FCCPC, any fare adjustment must be transparent, properly communicated and applied in a fair manner. It also noted that the complaints are emerging amid reports of reductions in the pump price of premium motor spirit in some parts of the country.
While fuel is only one of several cost elements affecting transport fares, the Commission said unexplained or poorly disclosed increases raise genuine consumer protection concerns.
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 festive season. He added that engagements with transport unions, park managers and operators nationwide have been intensified to encourage responsible pricing, voluntary compliance and orderly market behaviour.
Bello reiterated that fare increases are not inherently unlawful but warned that actions which take unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand could attract sanctions under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018.
He explained that practices such as failure to disclose fares adequately, coercive behaviour or coordinated pricing arrangements that harm consumers would be subjected to strict regulatory scrutiny. He further warned that operators found guilty of violations would face severe penalties.
The FCCPC advised travellers to always confirm transport fares before departure, keep evidence of payment and report any suspected unfair practices through the Commission’s complaint channels and designated hotlines.