AON Rejects FCCPC Claims of Domestic Airline Price Manipulation
Airlines Operators of Nigeria (AON) has dismissed Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) allegations that local airlines manipulated ticket prices during December 2025's festive season. AON spokesperson Professor Obiora Okonkwo stated the Commission lacks technical expertise to interpret airline pricing structures, which he claims reflect standard supply-demand dynamics rather than manipulation. The FCCPC's interim report identified price patterns on domestic routes, noting higher fares during reduced seat availability periods. Aviation expert Dr. Alex Nwuba confirmed December's fare surge as a recurring seasonal pattern driven by late bookings and economic factors. Minister Festus Keyamo reiterated Nigeria's deregulated market allows full price determination by airlines. The dispute raises questions about regulatory oversight versus market-driven pricing in Nigeria's aviation sector.