The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria, the operator of DStv and GOtv, to explain its decision to increase subscription prices, which is set to take effect on March 1, 2025.
FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, issued a statement on Tuesday, announcing that MultiChoice’s Chief Executive Officer has been ordered to appear at the commission’s headquarters on February 27 for an investigative hearing.
The summons comes after MultiChoice announced a 21% price increase for its DStv Compact package, raising the subscription fee from N15,700 to N19,000, along with other price adjustments. The decision sparked public outrage, with many Nigerian subscribers expressing frustration over what they see as frequent and unfair price hikes.
“The FCCPC is deeply concerned that Nigerian consumers continue to face frequent price increases,” the statement read. “There are also allegations that MultiChoice applies different pricing strategies in other markets, raising serious questions about fairness, market abuse, and potential anti-competitive practices.”
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The regulator stressed that it is acting under its mandate in Sections 32 and 33 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA). It warned that MultiChoice must provide a satisfactory explanation, or the company could face penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures.
FCCPC also confirmed that it is working with relevant regulatory agencies to ensure fair competition and stronger consumer protection in Nigeria’s pay-TV industry.
Nigerians have long criticized MultiChoice over repeated price increases, accusing the company of exploiting its dominant market position. With the latest development, consumers are eagerly watching to see if the FCCPC will take decisive action to protect their interests.