The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria to explain its planned subscription price increase, set to take effect on March 1, 2025.
This directive was issued in a statement by Ondaje Ijagwu, the Director of Corporate Affairs at FCCPC, and shared with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday.
Ijagwu explained that, under Sections 32 and 33 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA), the FCCPC has ordered MultiChoice Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer to attend an investigative hearing at the Commission’s headquarters on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
The summons follows MultiChoice’s formal notification of the upcoming price hike, which has sparked concerns about frequent unilateral price increases, the potential abuse of market dominance, and possible anti-competitive practices in the pay-TV sector.
The FCCPC voiced serious concerns over the ongoing financial strain faced by Nigerian consumers due to frequent price adjustments.
The Commission also highlighted allegations that MultiChoice employs different pricing strategies in other markets, intensifying worries about fairness and market misconduct.
The statement warned that if MultiChoice fails to provide adequate explanations or is found in violation of fair market principles, the FCCPC will take necessary regulatory actions, including penalties and sanctions, to protect Nigerian consumers.
Additionally, the FCCPC is working closely with relevant regulatory bodies to promote fair competition and consumer protection within Nigeria’s broadcasting and digital subscription sectors.
