The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has issued a formal notice regarding the rising cost of interstate travel during the holiday period.
While the commission stated that price hikes during the yuletide are not inherently illegal, it emphasized that any transport operator found engaging in unfair or predatory pricing will face severe regulatory consequences.
In a statement released this Sunday, the 21st of December, 2025, by Ondaje Ijagwu, the Director of Corporate Affairs, the FCCPC addressed a growing wave of public outcry concerning sudden and steep fare increases across the nation’s road transport networks.
The Commission acknowledged that several variables, including peak-season demand and logistics, can legitimately influence ticket prices.
Specifically, the FCCPC noted: “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. Any fare adjustment must therefore be transparently communicated and applied fairly.”
The commission also highlighted a discrepancy between rising fares and the current fuel market, noting: “The FCCPC also notes 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.”
Mr. Tunji Bello, the Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of the FCCPC, confirmed that the agency has stepped up its surveillance of transport hubs and intensified discussions with park managers and transport unions to ensure market order.
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Mr. Bello clarified the legal boundary regarding pricing, stating: “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.”
He further cautioned that the commission would investigate any evidence of price-fixing or coercion. According to the CEO: “Where cases of violation are established, he warned, culprits face stiff penalties.”
To protect themselves, the FCCPC has urged travelers to: Verify all fares prior to boarding or booking, ensure they keep receipts or proof of payment, and submit reports of suspected exploitation via the official FCCPC complaint portal or their dedicated hotlines.