By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has cautioned inter-city road transport operators across the country against arbitrary and unexplained fare increases during the ongoing yuletide travel season, following a surge in consumer complaints from several states.
In an official statement signed by the Director, Corporate Affairs, FCCPC, Ondaje Ijagwu, the Commission acknowledged that seasonal demand, operational pressures and other legitimate cost factors could influence transport pricing. It, however, stressed that consumers are entitled to clear, accurate and timely information on fares before embarking on any journey.
According to the Commission, any adjustment in transport fares must be transparently communicated, properly disclosed and applied in a fair manner, warning that practices that undermine consumer rights would not be tolerated.
The FCCPC also noted that the complaints were emerging at a time when there have been reports of reductions in the pump price of premium motor spirit in parts of the country. While fuel cost is only one of several inputs that may affect transport fares, the Commission stated that fare increases that are not clearly explained or justified raise legitimate consumer protection concerns.
Commenting on the development, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, Mr Tunji Bello, disclosed that the Commission is closely monitoring market conduct throughout the festive period. He added that engagements with transport unions, park managers and operators nationwide have been intensified to promote responsible pricing practices.
Mr Bello explained that the engagements are largely preventive, aimed at encouraging voluntary compliance, transparency and orderly market behaviour, especially during periods of high travel demand.
He clarified that price increases are not, in themselves, unlawful under the law. However, he warned that conduct that exploits consumers or takes unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand may attract regulatory attention in line with the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018.
The FCCPC further cautioned that practices such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercive conduct, or coordinated pricing arrangements among operators to the detriment of consumers would be subjected to strict regulatory scrutiny. Where violations are established, the Commission warned that offenders would face stiff penalties.
The Commission advised travellers to confirm transport fares before payment, retain evidence of transactions, and promptly report any suspected unfair practices through its complaint portal at complaints.fccpc.gov.ng or via its dedicated hotlines on 0805 600 3030 and 0805 600 2020.
