Regulatory Agency Accuses MultiChoice of Violating Directives
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has filed a criminal lawsuit against MultiChoice Nigeria and its CEO, John Ugbe, for allegedly defying regulatory directives and obstructing an ongoing investigation into its recent subscription price increase.
The FCCPC’s three-count charge, filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos, accuses MultiChoice of:
- Ignoring regulatory orders to suspend its recent price hike.
- Misleading the Commission by proceeding with the increase without addressing concerns.
- Obstructing an official inquiry, in violation of Section 33(4) of the FCCPC Act.
Public Outrage Over Subscription Price Hike
MultiChoice Nigeria, the parent company of DStv and GOtv, sparked backlash after announcing a price increase on February 24, set to take effect on March 1.
This move came less than a year after the last price hike, prompting immediate consumer complaints and regulatory intervention.
In response, the FCCPC summoned MultiChoice Nigeria’s CEO to appear for an investigative hearing on February 27 and ordered the company to suspend the price increase pending further review.
However, the agency alleges that MultiChoice proceeded with the hike despite these warnings, violating key sections of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
FCCPC Vows Further Action
The FCCPC maintains that MultiChoice’s actions undermine regulatory authority, disrupt market fairness, and deprive Nigerian consumers of legal protections.
The Commission has vowed to explore additional enforcement measures, including possible sanctions, to ensure compliance and accountability.
Reassuring Nigerians, the FCCPC emphasized its commitment to protecting consumers from exploitative business practices and ensuring that dominant players in any sector adhere to fair market principles.
This legal battle is expected to set a precedent for consumer rights and corporate accountability in Nigeria’s pay-TV industry.
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