By Deborah Nnamdi
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on Tuesday called on the leadership of MultiChoice Nigeria to appear at the Commission’s office on Thursday to explain its recent proposed subscription price increase.
Recall that the Pay-TV operator had announced a 21 percent increase in the subscription fee for its DStv and Gotv packages with effect from March 1, 2025.
The company raised the price of the DStv Compact package from N15,700 to N19,000, triggering anger across the nation.
The latest price adjustment followed a similar hike implemented in May 2024, which the company attributed to inflation and rising operational costs in the country.
Angered by the development, FCCPC, in a statement issued by its Director, Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, sternly warned MultiChoice against any attempt to exploit Nigerians.
The FCCPC expressed concerns that Nigerian consumers continue to face frequent price increases, amid accusations that MultiChoice applies different pricing strategies in other markets.
According to FCCPC, the move heightened questions about fairness and market abuse.
“Should MultiChoice fail to provide satisfactory explanations or be found in violation of fair market principles, the FCCPC will be left with no other option than to impose regulatory penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures to protect Nigerian consumers.
“Furthermore, the FCCPC is engaging the sector regulator and other relevant agencies to ensure fair competition and consumer protection within Nigeria’s broadcasting and digital subscription landscape”, the statement added.
