Govt summons MultiChoice over price hike
The Federal Government, through the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria over its planned increase in subscription rates for DStv and GoTV.
Customers of the pay-TV service recently received notifications about the price hikes. According to MultiChoice, the DStv Premium bouquet will rise to ₦44,500 from ₦37,000, while the Compact+ subscription will increase to ₦30,000, up from the previous ₦25,000. These new rates are set to take effect on March 1, 2025.
In response to the proposed price increase, the FCCPC has called on MultiChoice Nigeria’s CEO to attend a hearing at the Commission’s headquarters on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, stated that the Commission has summoned MultiChoice to explain the rationale behind its price hike. The FCCPC is concerned about the recurring unilateral price increases, the potential abuse of market dominance, and possible anti-competitive behavior in the pay-TV sector.
Ijagwu added that the FCCPC is particularly concerned about the different pricing strategies MultiChoice applies in other markets. The Commission has warned that regulatory penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures will be imposed if MultiChoice fails to provide satisfactory justifications or is found to be violating fair market practices.
The FCCPC emphasized that this action is part of its effort to protect Nigerian consumers and ensure fair competition in the broadcasting and digital subscription industry. The Commission is also engaging with the sector regulator and other relevant agencies to promote consumer protection and fair competition in Nigeria.
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