FCCPC cautions transporters against arbitrary fare hikes during holiday seasons

*Nigeria’s Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission says though seasonal demand, operational pressures, and other legitimate cost factors may affect transport pricing, consumers are entitled to clear, accurate, and timely information on fares before travel

Isola Moses | ConsumerConnect

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 period.

The FCCPC said the precautionary measure had become essential, following a surge in consumer complaints across several parts of the country.

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The Commission recognises that seasonal demand, operational pressures and other legitimate cost factors may affect transport pricing.

The market regulatory Commission, however, asserted that “consumers are entitled to clear, accurate, and timely information on fares before travel.”

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Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at FCCPC, Sunday, December 21, 2025, stated that any fare adjustment must therefore, be “transparently communicated and applied fairly.”

The FCCPC also disclosed that these complaints are arising at a time when there are reports of reductions in the pump price of the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), also known as petrol, across parts of the country.

While fuel cost is only one of several inputs that may influence transport fares, increases that are not properly explained or disclosed raise valid consumer protection concerns.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Tunji Bello, Executive Vice-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO) of the Commission, said the FCCPC was closely monitoring market conduct throughout the festive season.

Bello stated that the Commission has intensified engagement with transport unions, park managers, and operators nationwide.

The FCCPC Chief Executive also explained that these engagements are preventive in nature, and are aimed at encouraging responsible pricing practices, voluntary compliance and orderly market behaviour.

Bello as well clarified that price increases are not, in themselves, unlawful. However, conduct that exploits consumers or takes unfair advantage of heightened seasonal demand may attract regulatory attention under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

The EVC/CEO of the Commission further noted that practices, such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercive conduct, or coordinated pricing arrangements, operators to the detriment of consumers would be subject to strict regulatory scrutiny.

Where cases of violation are established, he warned that culprits face stiff penalties.

Consumers are advised to confirm fares before travel, retain evidence of payment, and report any suspected unfair practices to the Commission through its complaint portal at complaints.fccpc.gov.ng or via the hotlines 0805 600 3030 and 0805 600 2020.

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