Yuletide Alert: FCCPC Slams Unexplained Fare Hikes As Fuel Prices Drop.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a warning to intercity transport operators against arbitrary fare hikes during the yuletide season, amid rising consumer complaints nationwide.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a statement, FCCPC spokesperson Ondaje Ijagwu acknowledged that factors such as seasonal demand and operational costs may influence transport fares. However, he stressed that passengers are entitled to clear and timely information regarding ticket prices, and any adjustments must be transparently communicated and fairly applied.

The Commission noted that these complaints coincide with reports of reduced fuel prices in several parts of the country, particularly in Abuja, where premium motor spirit is now selling between N739 and N912 per liter following price adjustments at the Dangote Refinery ex-depot.

Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of FCCPC, Tunji Bello, said the Commission is closely monitoring market behavior throughout the festive season and has intensified engagement with transport unions, park managers, and operators nationwide. He emphasized that these preventive efforts aim to encourage responsible pricing, voluntary compliance, and orderly market conduct.

Bello clarified that fare increases are not inherently illegal. However, any conduct that exploits consumers or takes unfair advantage of peak seasonal demand could attract regulatory action under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018. Practices such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercion, or collusive pricing among operators will be rigorously scrutinized, and offenders may face severe penalties.

Consumers are advised to confirm fares prior to travel, keep evidence of payments, and report any suspected unfair practices to the Commission.