The federal government, through the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), has threatened to sanction MultiChoice, the parent company of DSTV and GOtv, over its recent 20% price hike for subscription plans.
On Tuesday, the commission stated that MultiChoice Nigeria must explain the proposed subscription price increase, which is set to take effect on March 1, 2025.
The FCCPC said, “Exercising its mandate under Sections 32 and 33 of the FCCPA, the FCCPC has directed the Chief Executive Officer of MultiChoice Nigeria to attend an investigative hearing at the Commission’s headquarters on Thursday, February 27, 2025.”
The commission’s action follows MultiChoice’s formal notification of the price adjustment, which has raised concerns about recurring unilateral price hikes, potential abuse of market dominance, and perceived anti-competitive practices within the pay-TV industry.
The FCCPC expressed deep concern that Nigerian consumers continue to face frequent price increases, while MultiChoice is accused of applying different pricing strategies in other markets, raising questions about fairness and market abuse.
The FCCPC warned that if MultiChoice fails to provide satisfactory explanations or is found to violate fair market principles, it will have no choice but to impose regulatory penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures to protect Nigerian consumers.
The commission also stated that it is collaborating with the sector regulator and other relevant agencies to ensure fair competition and consumer protection within Nigeria’s broadcasting and digital subscription sectors.
