The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has sued MultiChoice Nigeria and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, over alleged regulatory violations and obstruction of an ongoing investigation into the company’s recent price hike for DStv and GOtv subscriptions.
According to the FCCPC, MultiChoice Nigeria was directed on February 27, 2025, to maintain its existing subscription rates while regulators reviewed the proposed price adjustments. However, despite this directive, MultiChoice proceeded with the increase on March 1, 2025, leading to the lawsuit.
The commission has filed a case at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, accusing the company of willfully ignoring regulatory orders, obstructing an investigation, and attempting to mislead authorities.
The FCCPC stated that MultiChoice’s decision to move forward with the price hike was a deliberate attempt to undermine regulatory oversight. The commission stressed that such actions could deny consumers their legal protections and create unfair market conditions.
“MultiChoice Nigeria has demonstrated a pattern of conduct that disregards regulatory processes and undermines consumer rights,” the FCCPC noted.
Beyond the court case, the FCCPC is considering further enforcement measures, including financial penalties and stricter regulations on the company. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring fair competition and protecting Nigerian consumers from exploitative business practices.
The legal battle could potentially impact current subscription rates and future pricing policies of MultiChoice services in Nigeria. If the court rules in favor of the FCCPC, the company may be required to reverse the price hike or pay significant fines.
As the case unfolds, MultiChoice’s Nigerians Customers will be watching closely to see if regulatory bodies can successfully hold them accountable. For now, DStv and GOtv subscribers remain at the center of a legal showdown between MultiChoice Nigeria and the FCCPC.
