The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC in a move to safeguard consumer rights, has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria over its planned to increase subscription price, which is set to take effect as from March 1, 2025.
In a statement released by FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, said the commission expressed concerns over the recurrent price hikes in Nigeria’s pay-TV industry, warning against possible anti-competitive practices and market exploitation.
The statement read, the commission has invited MultiChoice’s Chief Executive Officer for an investigative hearing on February 27, 2025, at its headquarters. The FCCPC’s action follows consumer complaints regarding unilateral price adjustments, a trend that raises questions about fair pricing and market dominance.
The statement further reads: “The FCCPC remains committed to ensuring that businesses operate fairly and in line with Nigeria’s consumer protection laws.
“If MultiChoice fails to provide a satisfactory justification for its pricing strategy or is found in violation of fair competition principles, the Commission will take necessary enforcement actions, including sanctions and corrective measures.”
The commission also stressed that it is working closely with the sector regulator and other relevant agencies to promote fair competition in Nigeria’s broadcasting and digital subscription industry.
With growing public frustration over the frequent cost increases in pay-TV services, the FCCPC reassured Nigerian consumers that it will continue to push for transparency, accountability and fair market practices in the sector
