The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has announced an expanded investigation into allegations of arbitrary increases in airfares by domestic airlines, following growing public outrage across the country.
Concerns have intensified over what many passengers describe as unjustifiable ticket prices on local routes, particularly during festive periods. Reports indicate that fares on some domestic flights have surged sharply, prompting questions about pricing templates and possible coordinated practices among operators.
The Nigerian Senate recently took up the matter, deliberating extensively and calling for a comprehensive investigation into the activities of domestic airlines. Lawmakers accused the airlines of exploiting Nigerian consumers through excessive and inconsistent fare increases.
In a statement issued on Friday by the FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Ondaje Ijagwu, the Commission confirmed that it has commenced an expanded probe to determine whether any provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) have been violated.
According to the Commission, the investigation is focused on operators servicing selected routes, including those in the South-East and South-South regions.
Ijagwu stated that the FCCPC would not hesitate to apply appropriate enforcement measures at the conclusion of the investigation if evidence of wrongdoing is established.
He also disclosed that Air Peace has instituted a court action seeking to restrain the Commission from examining its pricing mechanisms, following the commencement of an earlier investigation into its pricing model after widespread public complaints. He clarified that the ongoing inquiry is without prejudice to the pending court case.
Quoting the Executive Vice Chairman of the FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, Ijagwu said the Commission remains committed to protecting consumers and ensuring fair competition in the aviation sector.
“For the avoidance of doubt, we are not a price control board, but the FCCPA 2018 empowers us to prevent the exploitation of consumers,” Bello said.
“When we receive petitions or uncover credible evidence, we will not stand by and watch Nigerian consumers being exploited under any guise.”
He added that in view of the arbitrary spike in airfares, the Commission is extending its review to cover pricing patterns, the justification for fare increases reported by consumers, and any practices that may undermine market competitiveness.
“Where evidence confirms a breach of the Act, the FCCPC will apply appropriate enforcement measures,” Bello assured.
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