The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has cautioned inter-city road transport operators against arbitrary and unexplained fare increases during the ongoing yuletide travel season, following a surge in consumer complaints nationwide.
The Commission acknowledged that seasonal demand and operational pressures may influence transport pricing. However, it stressed that consumers are entitled to clear, accurate and timely disclosure of fares before travel, adding that any fare adjustment must be transparently communicated and fairly applied.
FCCPC noted that the complaints are emerging amid reports of reduced pump prices of premium motor spirit in parts of the country. While fuel costs are only one of several inputs affecting transport fares, the Commission warned that increases lacking proper explanation raise legitimate consumer-protection concerns.
Speaking on the development, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of FCCPC, Tunji Bello, said the Commission is closely monitoring market conduct throughout the festive period and has intensified engagement with transport unions, park managers and operators nationwide.
According to him, the engagements are preventive, aimed at promoting responsible pricing, voluntary compliance and orderly market behaviour.
Bello clarified that fare increases are not unlawful in themselves, but warned that conduct exploiting consumers or taking unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand may attract regulatory action under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
He added that practices such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercive conduct, or coordinated pricing arrangements detrimental to consumers will be subject to strict regulatory scrutiny, noting that established violations will attract stiff penalties.
The Commission advised travellers to confirm fares before departure, retain proof of payment, and report suspected unfair practices through its complaint portal at complaints.fccpc.gov.ng or via the hotlines 0805 600 3030 and 0805 600 2020.
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