The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has withdrawn its legal action against MultiChoice Nigeria, the parent company of DSTV and GOTV, over its controversial subscription price hike.
MultiChoice Nigeria had come under scrutiny after announcing an increase in its subscription rates, a move that angered many customers who felt the company was exploiting its dominant market position. The FCCPC subsequently filed a case against MultiChoice at the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, seeking a reversal of the price hike and consumer-friendly regulations in the pay-TV sector.
However, recent developments indicate that the case has been dropped, following a request from lawyer Festus Onifade, who originally filed the suit. The tribunal had previously ruled that MultiChoice must pay a ₦150 million fine and offer customers a one-month free subscription for disregarding interim orders. However, MultiChoice appealed the ruling and requested a stay of proceedings.
The withdrawal of the case suggests a resolution has been reached, though consumer advocacy groups remain dissatisfied. Many argue that MultiChoice’s pricing strategy continues to disadvantage customers due to a lack of competitive alternatives in Nigeria’s pay-TV sector.
Industry experts suggest that this case underscores the need for better regulations in Nigeria’s digital entertainment market, with calls for government intervention to prevent monopolistic practices.