The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has initiated legal proceedings against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, for flouting regulatory directives, obstructing an ongoing inquiry, and violating key provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
The legal action follows MultiChoice Nigeria’s decision to implement a price hike on DStv and GOtv subscriptions from March 1, 2025, despite the FCCPC’s clear directive on February 27, 2025, ordering the company to maintain existing prices until the Commission completes its examination of the proposed price increase.
The FCCPC’s charges, filed at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, accuse MultiChoice Nigeria and John Ugbe of:
- Obstructing the Commission’s inquiry by going ahead with the price hike (contrary to Section 33(4) of the FCCPA).
- Impeding the ongoing investigation by disregarding the directive to suspend the price increase (Section 110).
- Attempting to mislead the Commission by unilaterally proceeding with the hike without formal objection (Section 159(2)), with penalties prescribed under Section 159(4)(a) & (b).
The FCCPC’s legal action underscores the Commission’s commitment to protecting consumer rights, enforcing regulatory compliance, and ensuring corporate accountability in Nigeria’s pay-TV sector.
The Commission views MultiChoice’s actions as a deliberate and calculated attempt to undermine regulatory authority, disrupt market fairness, and deny Nigerian consumers the protection afforded under the law. By disregarding the FCCPC’s directive and implementing the price hike before appearing before the Commission’s investigative hearing on March 6, 2025, MultiChoice has not only flouted regulatory processes but also demonstrated a pattern of conduct that undermines consumer rights and fair competition.
In addition to these legal actions, the FCCPC is reviewing further enforcement measures, including sanctions, penalties, and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance and accountability.
The FCCPC is committed to protecting Nigerian consumers from exploitative business practices and ensuring that dominant players in any sector adhere to fair market principles and legal compliance.