The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) has criticised the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) over its interim report alleging that domestic airlines manipulated ticket prices during the 2025 yuletide travel season.
Gatekeepers News reports that the operators described the commission’s findings as damaging to the aviation industry and based on what they called a flawed understanding of airline economics.
The FCCPC had announced on February 26 that its preliminary review uncovered evidence suggesting local airlines increased fares significantly on certain routes during the festive period, with some ticket prices reportedly rising by more than 131 per cent, particularly on routes to the South-East and South-South.
Reacting in a statement, AON spokesperson and Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, Obiorah Okonkwo, said while domestic carriers respect government institutions, they would challenge conclusions not grounded in operational realities.
“They don’t know the economics of airlines and do not possess the professional expertise to dabble into how prices are fixed,” Okonkwo said.
“They don’t understand airline operations, and as far as the AON is concerned, they are playing to the gallery and should not be taken seriously. We have immense respect for all government agencies, but we would not accept any statement not based on realities or facts.”
He warned that the commission’s position could harm the fragile domestic aviation sector.
“I have not read the details of the report, but what the FCCPC is doing is very detrimental to the survival of domestic operators,” he added.
In response, FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Tunji Bello, said the review was part of the commission’s statutory duty to ensure fair competition and protect consumers.
“This assessment is intended to provide clarity on pricing behaviour during predictable peak travel periods. The Commission’s role is not to disrupt legitimate commercial activity, but to ensure that market outcomes remain consistent with competition and consumer protection principles under the law,” Bello said in a statement posted on the agency’s X page.
He stressed that the report remains preliminary and that further analysis is ongoing.
“It is important to emphasise that this is an interim report. Our next action will be dictated by the full facts established at the end of the review exercise. Then, the Commission will decide whether any regulatory guidance, engagement, or enforcement steps are necessary, strictly in accordance with the law,” he added.
