The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has directed MultiChoice Nigeria, the operator of DStv and GOtv, to halt its planned subscription price increase pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation.
In a statement issued on Thursday, February 27, 2025, FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, confirmed that the commission had ordered MultiChoice to maintain its current pricing structure until further notice.
Why MultiChoice is Under Investigation
The FCCPC’s directive follows concerns over MultiChoice’s frequent price increases, which led to the company being summoned to an investigative hearing.
While MultiChoice’s CEO was initially expected to appear before the FCCPC on February 27, the commission granted an extension, rescheduling the hearing for March 6, 2025.
“As part of this directive, MultiChoice is expressly instructed to maintain the existing price structure as of February 27, 2025, pending the commission’s review and final determination on the matter,” the statement read.
The FCCPC stressed that freezing the price hike is necessary to prevent consumer exploitation while investigations continue.
Proposed Price Hike Sparks Outrage
MultiChoice had earlier notified customers of a planned subscription price adjustment set to take effect from March 1, 2025.
The proposed increase would have affected several packages, with some price hikes going as high as N30,000 and N44,500 for Compact Plus and Premium plans, respectively.
In a statement to subscribers, MultiChoice defended the decision, saying:
“This adjustment is necessary to ensure we continue offering world-class homegrown and international content, delivered through the best technology.”
However, the announcement sparked widespread concern among Nigerian customers, many of whom have long criticized MultiChoice for its frequent price hikes and lack of pay-per-view options.
What’s Next?
The FCCPC has assured consumers that updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Meanwhile, Nigerians are advised to monitor official channels for further developments on the case.
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