*The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria to explain its proposed subscription price increase, stating the company’s move has raised concerns about recurrent unilateral price hikes, potential market dominance abuse, and perceived anti-competitive practices in the pay-TV industry in the West African country

Gbenga Kayode | 绿帽献妻

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), again, has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria to explain its proposed unilateral subscription price increments, scheduled to become effective from March 1, 2025.

MultiChoice Nigeria is the owner cum operator of the DSTv and GOTv pay-TV services in the West African country.

绿帽献妻 reports the FCCPC said pursuant to its mandate under Sections 32 and 33 of the FCCPA, the Commission had directed the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of MultiChoice to attend an investigative hearing at the FCCPC Corporate Headquarters Thursday, February 27, 2025, in Abuja, FCT.

Mr. Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs, who noted this development in a statement Tuesday, February 25, 2025, said the Commission’s action followed MultiChoice鈥檚 formal notification of the price adjustment.

The FCCPC stated that the company’s move has raised concerns about recurrent unilateral price hikes, potential market dominance abuse, and perceived anti-competitive practices in the pay-TV industry.

Ijagwu averred the FCCPC is “deeply concerned 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 statement also noted: “Should MultiChoice fail to provide satisfactory explanations, or be found in violation of fair market principles, the FCCPC will be left with no other option than to impose regulatory penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures to protect Nigerian consumers.

“Furthermore, the FCCPC is engaging the sector regulator, and other relevant agencies to ensure fair competition and consumer protection within Nigeria鈥檚 broadcasting and digital subscription landscape.”