After a surge in consumer complaints across Nigeria, 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 Commission, in a statement by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, on Sunday, said it recognises that seasonal demand, operational pressures and other legitimate cost factors may affect transport pricing.
It however stated that consumers are entitled to clear, accurate, and timely information on fares before travel, adding that any fare adjustment must therefore be transparently communicated and applied fairly.
FCCPC also noted that these complaints are arising at a time when there are reports of reductions in the pump price of premium motor spirit 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,” the statement said.
Speaking on the development, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Tunji Bello, said the FCCPC is closely monitoring market conduct throughout the festive season and has intensified engagement with transport unions, park managers and operators nationwide.
Bello explained that these engagements are preventive in nature and are aimed at encouraging responsible pricing practices, voluntary compliance and orderly market behaviour.
The FCCPC boss clarified that price increases are not, in themselves, unlawful.
He however noted that 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.
He further noted that practices such as inadequate fare disclosure, coercive conduct, or coordinated pricing arrangements among operators to the detriment of consumers will be subject to strict regulatory scrutiny.
Bello warned that where cases of violation are established, culprits face stiff penalties.
The statement advised consumers to confirm fares before travel, retain evidence of payment, and report any suspected unfair practices to the Commission through its complaint portal or phone lines.
