FCCPC sues MultiChoice for increasing DSTV, GOtv subscription prices
Story by Hamzat IBRAHIM
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has initiated legal action against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, for allegedly violating regulatory directives, obstructing an ongoing inquiry, and breaching the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
FCCPC in a statement signed by Ondaje Ijagwu Director, Corporate Affairs on Wednesday, said MultiChoice Nigeria was directed on 27 February 2025 to maintain its existing pricing structure for DStv and GOtv pending the completion of an inquiry into its proposed price increase.
However, despite this directive, the company went ahead with the price hike on 1 March 2025, disregarding the commission’s orders, thereby making FCCPC to file charges against MultiChoice Nigeria and John Ugbe at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, on three counts of violating the FCCPA 2018.
READ ALSO: Again, multichoice increases DSTV, GOtv subscription prices
The charges include willfully obstructing the Commission’s inquiry by implementing the price hike in defiance of directives (Section 33(4)), impeding the ongoing investigation by failing to suspend the hike (Section 110), and attempting to mislead the commission by proceeding with the increase without objection (Section 159(2), punishable under Section 159(4)(a) and (b)).
The commission described MultiChoice’s actions as a deliberate attempt to undermine regulatory authority, disrupt market fairness, and deny Nigerian consumers the protection guaranteed under the law.
It noted that the company implemented the price hike before appearing at the commission’s investigative hearing scheduled for 6 March 2025.
“The FCCPC is committed to protecting Nigerian consumers from exploitative business practices and ensuring that dominant players in any sector adhere to fair market principles and legal compliance,” the commission stated.
As part of its response, the FCCPC is also considering additional enforcement measures, including sanctions, penalties, and regulatory interventions, to ensure MultiChoice Nigeria is held accountable.
The commission reiterated its stance against unfair business practices and pledged to uphold consumer rights in Nigeria.
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