The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has said that increases in transport fares during the yuletide season are not illegal, but warned that exploitation of passengers will not be tolerated.
The commission made this known in a statement issued on Sunday by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, following complaints by travellers over sharp fare hikes by inter-city transport operators across the country.
According to the FCCPC, fare increases can occur due to seasonal demand and other genuine operational costs, but passengers must be properly informed.
“Seasonal demand, operational pressures, and other legitimate cost factors may affect transport pricing. However, consumers are entitled to clear, accurate, and timely information on fares before travel,” the statement said.
The commission stressed that any adjustment in fares must be transparent and fairly applied.
It also noted that the complaints were coming at a time when there were reports of reduced pump prices of premium motor spirit in some 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,” the statement added.
Speaking further, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the commission, Tunji Bello, said the FCCPC was closely monitoring transport operators nationwide during the festive period.
He explained that the commission had intensified engagements with transport unions, park managers and operators to promote responsible pricing and compliance with consumer protection laws.
“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 2018,” Bello said.
He warned that practices such as failure to clearly disclose fares, coercing passengers to pay inflated prices or colluding to fix fares against the interest of consumers would face strict regulatory scrutiny.
“Where violations are established, culprits will face stiff penalties,” he added.
The commission advised travellers to always confirm fares before boarding vehicles, keep evidence of payment and report suspected unfair practices through its official complaint channels and hotlines.
