The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria following its proposed increment on all DStv and GOtv subscription packages that will commence from March 1, 2025.
Recall that MultiChoice announced the price adjustments on Monday, citing “increased operational costs”.
However, the Commission in a statement issued by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu on Tuesday noted that the probe is in line with its Sections 32 and 33 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
The statement partly reads: “Exercising its mandate under Sections 32 and 33 of the FCCPA, the FCCPC directed the Chief Executive Officer of MultiChoice Nigeria to attend an investigative hearing at the Commission’s headquarters on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
“This action follows MultiChoice’s formal notification of the price adjustment, which raises concerns about recurrent unilateral price hikes, potential market dominance abuse, and perceived anti-competitive practices in the pay-TV industry.
“The FCCPC is deeply concerned that Nigerian consumers continue to face frequent price increases, amid accusations that MultiChoice applies different pricing strategies in other markets, heightening questions about fairness and market abuse.”
Ijagwu said that should MultiChoice fail to provide satisfactory explanations or be found in violation of fair market principles, the FCCPC will be left with no other option than to impose regulatory penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures to protect Nigerian consumers.
He further stated that the FCCPC is engaging the sector regulator and other relevant agencies to ensure fair competition and consumer protection within Nigeria’s broadcasting and digital subscription landscape.
