An Abuja-based constitutional lawyer, Ikenna Ahumibe of the Ikenna Ahumibe and Attorneys has petitioned the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) and Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) over alleged exploitative hike in Airfares by Airline operators, Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines, specifically for routes to the South East during the yuletide season.

A copy of the petition obtained by The Sun at the weekend, requested that FCCPC and ICPC investigate the rational behind the alleged exorbitant hike in the price of air tickets to the south east during the yuletide, stating that the development was unacceptable to the majority of air travelers.

The petition made reference to prices of air tickets advertised on the websites of the airlines, which indicated that a one-way ticket in days in December costs between N275,000.00 to N350,500.00. “Lagos-Asaba or Abuja to Owerri or Lagos to Anambra was N350,500.00 for one way ticket, with Abuja to Enugu hitting N275,000.00 at the same instant Lagos-Kano return ticket costs less than one-third of Lagos-Enugu ticket.

“This spike in ticket prices is both unreasonable and exploitative, with fares rising beyond the reach of average citizens. We believe this action violates the principles of fair market competition and consumer protection as enshrined in the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA).

“This pricing pattern appears to be deliberate, coordinated, and predatory targeting a specific demography and exploiting the seasonal demand. Such conduct, if unchecked, not only undermines public trust but also erodes economic equity, especially for a region heavily reliant on air travel due to poor road and rail infrastructure.”

The petition further noted that over the years, Nigerians, particularly those travelling home during festive periods to the South East, have endured seasonal price manipulation in the aviation sector.

“We, hereby, urge the FCCPC to investigate this trend for possible violations or price-fixing, market abuse, or collusive behaviour and to compel actions from the operators regarding their pricing structures.

“We also call on the ICPC to look into any underlying corrupt practices or regulatory compromise that may be enabling such actions. In the spirit of justice and fairness, we request that you direct these Airlines to review and adjust these excessive fare and ensure that all pricing decisions going forward are made in a manner that reflects both market realities and consumer rights.

“We expect swift reactions to protect the interests of passengers travelling to the South East during the yuletide periods, and also hold the airlines accountable.” (Daily Sun)