FCCPC Battles Transporters Over “Unfair” Holiday Fare Hikes

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a stern warning to intercity road transport operators, cautioning them against arbitrary and exploitative fare increases as millions of Nigerians travel for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The directive comes amid a wave of complaints from commuters who allege that transport unions are taking undue advantage of the seasonal rush to double or triple ticket prices.

In a statement released on Sunday, FCCPC spokesperson Ondaje Ijagwu emphasized that while the commission recognizes that seasonal demand and operational costs can influence pricing, such adjustments must be transparent. The commission argues that consumers are entitled to accurate information before they commit to a trip, and any price jump that lacks a logical or disclosed justification raises serious regulatory concerns.

What makes the current trend particularly contentious is the recent downward movement in fuel prices. Reports from across the country indicate that the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) has dropped significantly, with some stations in Abuja and other major cities selling for between N739 and N912 per liter. This relief follows the Dangote Refinery’s decision to slash its ex-depot price to N699 per liter to compete with imports.

The FCCPC noted the irony of fares rising while one of the primary drivers of transport costs—fuel—is actually becoming cheaper. While the commission acknowledges that fuel is just one variable in the pricing equation, it maintains that the recent “insignificant” or “unexplained” hikes by transport owners do not align with the current economic realities of the energy sector.

Mr. Tunji Bello, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the FCCPC, stated that the commission has already intensified its monitoring of motor parks and transport hubs nationwide. He explained that his team is engaging directly with transport unions and park managers to encourage voluntary compliance. According to Bello, these preventive measures are meant to ensure that market behavior remains orderly and fair during the peak travel window.

Bello clarified that the law does not prohibit price increases in a free market, but it does prohibit “coercive conduct” and “coordinated pricing.” He warned that any evidence of transport operators colluding to fix prices at high levels to exploit travelers will be met with strict regulatory action. Under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act of 2018, companies found guilty of such anti-competitive behavior face heavy financial penalties and legal sanctions.

The commission also highlighted that many travelers have complained about a lack of price disclosure, where passengers only discover the “actual” fare after arriving at the park with their luggage. The FCCPC insists that all fares must be clearly displayed or communicated upfront, allowing passengers to make informed choices.

Travelers are being encouraged to be proactive by confirming fares before embarking on journeys and keeping receipts or evidence of payment. The FCCPC has asked the public to report any instances of “outrageous” or “unjustified” pricing through its official channels.

As the yuletide festivities continue, the tension between transporters—who cite high vehicle maintenance costs—and regulators—who point to falling fuel prices—remains a central theme of the holiday season. The FCCPC’s intervention serves as a reminder that “seasonal demand” is not a legal license for consumer exploitation.