Yuletide: FCCPC Warns Road Transporters Against Unjustified Fare Hikes

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a caution to inter-city road transport operators against arbitrary fare increases during the ongoing yuletide travel season, following a rise in consumer complaints in several regions across the country.

The Commission acknowledged that factors such as seasonal demand, operational costs, and other legitimate expenses may influence transport pricing. However, consumers are entitled to transparent, accurate, and timely information regarding fares prior to travel. Any adjustments must be clearly communicated and applied fairly.
The FCCPC highlighted that these complaints come amid reports of reductions in the pump price of premium motor spirit in some parts of the country. While fuel cost is just one of many factors affecting transport fares, unexplained or undisclosed fare hikes raise significant consumer protection concerns.
Commenting on the matter, Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the Commission, Mr. Tunji Bello, stated that the FCCPC is actively monitoring market behavior during the festive period and has intensified engagements with transport unions, park managers, and operators nationwide.
He explained that these preventive engagements aim to encourage responsible pricing, voluntary compliance, and orderly market conduct.
Mr. Bello emphasized that fare increases are not inherently illegal. However, practices that exploit consumers or take unfair advantage of peak seasonal demand may attract regulatory scrutiny under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
He further warned that issues such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercive practices, or collusive pricing arrangements among operators will face strict investigation, and violators may incur severe penalties.
Consumers are urged to verify fares before travel, keep payment evidence, and report suspected unfair practices to the Commission via its complaint portal at complaints.fccpc.gov.ng or through the hotlines 0805 600 3030 and 0805 600 2020.