FCCPC Summons MultiChoice Over Planned Price Hike, Orders Suspension

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has taken swift action against MultiChoice Nigeria, the operator of DStv and GOtv, over its planned subscription price increase set to take effect on March 1, 2025. The commission has summoned MultiChoice to explain the rationale behind the price hike, citing concerns over recurrent unilateral price increases, potential market dominance abuse, and perceived anti-competitive practices in the pay-TV industry.

In a statement, the FCCPC expressed concerns that Nigerian consumers continue to face frequent price increases, amid accusations that MultiChoice applies different pricing strategies in other markets, heightening questions about fairness and market abuse. The commission has directed MultiChoice’s CEO to attend an investigative hearing at its headquarters, where the company will be required to provide detailed explanations for the price increase.

The FCCPC has also ordered MultiChoice to suspend the planned price hike pending the outcome of the investigation. This move is aimed at protecting Nigerian consumers from potentially exploitative practices and ensuring that MultiChoice operates within the bounds of fair market principles.

The price hike, which was announced by MultiChoice earlier this month, includes increases in the DStv Compact bouquet from N15,700 to N19,000, the Compact Plus to N30,000, and the Premium subscription to N44,500. The move has sparked widespread outrage among Nigerian consumers, who have accused MultiChoice of taking advantage of its market dominance to impose arbitrary price increases.

If MultiChoice fails to provide satisfactory explanations or is found to be in violation of fair market principles, the FCCPC may impose regulatory penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures to protect Nigerian consumers. The commission has vowed to take all necessary steps to ensure that MultiChoice operates in a fair and transparent manner, and that Nigerian consumers are protected from exploitative practices.

The FCCPC’s intervention is a welcome development for Nigerian consumers, who have long complained about the high cost of pay-TV services in the country. The commission’s actions demonstrate its commitment to protecting consumers and promoting fair competition in the Nigerian market.

As the investigation unfolds, Nigerian consumers will be watching closely to see how the matter is resolved. One thing is certain, however: the FCCPC’s intervention has sent a strong message to MultiChoice and other operators in the pay-TV industry that they must operate within the bounds of fair market principles and prioritize the interests of Nigerian consumers.