The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has taken legal action against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its CEO, John Ugbe, for allegedly defying regulatory directives on subscription price adjustments.
FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, confirmed on Wednesday that charges have been filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos. The case follows MultiChoice’s decision to proceed with a price hike for DStv and GOtv on March 1, despite an earlier directive on February 27 to suspend the increase pending an investigation.
The commission accuses MultiChoice of obstructing its inquiry, failing to comply with directives, and attempting to mislead regulators. These alleged violations fall under Sections 33(4), 110, and 159(2) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, with penalties under Section 159(4)(a) and (b).
FCCPC criticised the company for implementing the new pricing structure before appearing at an investigative hearing scheduled for March 6. The commission is also considering further enforcement measures, including sanctions and regulatory interventions.
MultiChoice had previously justified the price hike by citing rising operational costs, but its decision to proceed despite regulatory objections has now sparked a legal battle.