FCCPC to Sanction Airlines for Price Fixing Allegations

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) is set to sanction five airlines over allegations of price fixing during the Christmas and New Year holiday period. Tunji Bello, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the FCCPC, disclosed this information during a briefing at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.

A preliminary investigation indicated that ticket prices, which typically range from ₦145,000 to ₦150,000, sharply increased to between ₦400,000 and ₦670,000 during the festive period. The investigation was initiated following consumer complaints regarding the significant fare hikes.

The FCCPC is considering various enforcement options, including potential refunds for affected passengers. Bello noted that the commission's review of pricing practices in the domestic aviation sector aims to address widespread consumer complaints and ensure compliance with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA).

The commission is also examining pricing practices of foreign airlines operating in Nigeria to protect consumers from unfair pricing.