The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) has urged the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a lawsuit compelling Multichoice Nigeria to introduce a pay-per-view billing system for GOtv and DStv subscribers.
The lawsuit, filed by Maduabuchi O. Idam Esq., seeks a ruling that would mandate Multichoice to allow customers to pay only for the time they actively watch TV. It also demands that unused subscriptions be rolled over, ensuring Nigerians get full value for their payments.
Multichoice, along with the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), are co-defendants in the case.
The AGF’s legal team has argued that the lawsuit constitutes an abuse of court process and should be dismissed. They maintain that the AGF’s office has no legal obligation in the matter and should not be a party to the suit.
During a hearing on February 19, 2025, Justice Inyang Ekwo asked the legal representatives of the FCCPC and NBC if they had responded to the suit, to which they confirmed filing counter-affidavits. The AGF’s lawyer also stated that they had submitted a motion to dismiss the case.
Justice Ekwo has scheduled the next hearing for May 6, 2025, allowing all parties to file any additional documents before proceedings continue.
This lawsuit is part of a larger conversation about Multichoice’s pricing structure in Nigeria. The company has faced criticism over frequent price hikes, with recent increases in DStv and GOtv subscription fees sparking consumer dissatisfaction.
Despite mounting pressure, Multichoice maintains that its current pricing model aligns with business sustainability and operational costs.
If the lawsuit is dismissed, Nigerian pay-TV subscribers may have to continue with the existing subscription model. However, if the case proceeds and rules in favor of the claimant, it could set a precedent for a more flexible billing system in the industry.
As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on the May 6 hearing to determine the future of pay-TV billing in Nigeria.
