FCCPC summons MultiChoice over price hike
In a move to safeguard consumer rights, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria over its planned subscription price increase set to take effect on March 1, 2025
In a statement signed by Ondaje Ijagwu, FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, the commission expressed concerns over the recurrent price hikes in Nigeria’s pay-TV industry, warning against possible anti-competitive practices and market exploitation.
According to the statement, the commission has invited MultiChoice’s Chief Executive Officer for an investigative hearing on February 27, 2025, at its headquarters. The FCCPC’s action follows consumer complaints regarding unilateral price adjustments, a trend that raises questions about fair pricing and market dominance.
The statement reads: “The FCCPC remains committed to ensuring that businesses operate fairly and in line with Nigeria’s consumer protection laws.
“If MultiChoice fails to provide a satisfactory justification for its pricing strategy or is found in violation of fair competition principles, the Commission will take necessary enforcement actions, including sanctions and corrective measures.”
The commission also emphasised that it is working closely with the sector regulator and other relevant agencies to promote fair competition in Nigeria’s broadcasting and digital subscription industry.
With growing public frustration over the frequent cost increases in pay-TV services, the FCCPC reassured Nigerian consumers that it will continue to push for transparency, accountability and fair market practices in the sector.
