By Abubakar Yunusa
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria to explain the company’s intended hike in DStv and GOtv subscription rates.
Ondaje Ijagwu, FCCPC director, corporate affairs, announced in a statement on Tuesday.
In an email to customers, seen by Peoples Daily on Tuesday, the pay-TV firm said from March 1, customers on the DStv premium bouquet will pay N44,500, compared to the current rate of N37,000, and those on Compact+ would pay N30,000 – up from N25,000.
Following the announcement, FCCPC has directed the chief executive officer of MultiChoice Nigeria to attend an investigative hearing at its headquarters on Thursday.
Ijagwu said the commission exercised its mandate under Sections 32 and 33 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA).
“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 statement reads.
“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 if MultiChoice fails to provide satisfactory explanations or is found in violation of fair market principles, it would face regulatory penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures to protect Nigerian consumers.
The director added that the commission is engaging the sector regulator and other relevant agencies to ensure fair competition and consumer protection within Nigeria’s broadcasting and digital subscription landscape.
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