FCCPC Issues Warning To Transport Operators Over Festive Fare Hikes

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a warning to inter-state and inter-city road transport operators, urging them to refrain from imposing unjustified or unexplained fare increases during the peak yuletide travel season.

The caution followed a noticeable rise in complaints from commuters across the country over sudden and steep increases in transport fares. In a statement released by the Commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, the FCCPC said it had received multiple reports of passengers being charged higher fares without prior notice or clear justification.

While acknowledging that the festive period often comes with increased demand and higher operating costs for transporters, the Commission stressed that such factors do not absolve operators of their responsibility to treat consumers fairly. It emphasised that passengers have the right to be clearly informed of transport fares in advance and to understand the basis for any adjustments.

The FCCPC noted that the complaints were emerging at a time when fuel prices had reportedly declined in some parts of the country. Although fuel is only one component of transport costs, the Commission said unexplained fare increases under such circumstances raise legitimate concerns about unfair market practices and consumer exploitation.

Speaking on the issue, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Tunji Bello, said the Commission had stepped up its surveillance of market activities during the festive period. He disclosed that the FCCPC was engaging transport unions, park operators and vehicle owners nationwide to encourage compliance with fair pricing standards.

Bello explained that the engagements were largely preventive, aimed at fostering transparency, responsible pricing and orderly conduct within the transport sector. He clarified that fare increases are not illegal in themselves, but warned that practices designed to take advantage of high seasonal demand could violate provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

According to him, actions such as failing to disclose fares upfront, coercing passengers into paying inflated prices, or colluding with other operators to fix fares at the expense of consumers would attract regulatory intervention. He added that the Commission would not hesitate to impose sanctions where violations are established.

The FCCPC also called on commuters to be vigilant during their travels, advising them to confirm fares before boarding, keep proof of payment and promptly report any suspected unfair practices.

Consumers were encouraged to submit complaints through the FCCPC’s online complaint portal or contact the Commission via its dedicated hotlines as part of efforts to protect their rights during the festive travel rush