The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has launched an expanded investigation into the pricing practices of Nigerian airlines, particularly regarding concerns over possible exploitation on certain domestic routes. The investigation follows growing public complaints about excessively high airfares, particularly on flights serving the South-East and South-South regions, as the festive season approaches.

In a statement issued on Friday, Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at the FCCPC, outlined that the investigation would focus on airlines operating on these routes to determine if any pricing violations have occurred. The Commission aims to ensure compliance with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) and maintain fair market practices.

Air Peace, one of the airlines under investigation, has filed a court case seeking to prevent the FCCPC from scrutinizing its pricing strategies. Despite this, the FCCPC has emphasized that its inquiry will continue, regardless of the legal action, and that the investigation will target broader airline industry pricing patterns.

Tunji Bello, the Executive Vice Chairman of the FCCPC, reassured the public that while the Commission is not a price control body, it does have the authority to intervene when consumer welfare or market competition is threatened. He stated that if evidence of exploitative pricing practices is found, the FCCPC would take appropriate enforcement action to protect consumers and ensure fair competition within the aviation sector.

Bello also assured that updates on the investigation would be provided as the situation develops, underlining the Commission’s commitment to ensuring consumers are not taken advantage of by unfair pricing practices.