The FCCPC has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria to justify an upcoming subscription price increase set for March 1. Concerns include frequent price hikes and potential market dominance abuse. The commission seeks clarity on the issue and may impose sanctions if MultiChoice fails to comply. Customers will see price adjustments for DStv and GOtv services, with increases ranging from N3,600 to N44,500 depending on the package.
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria to explain its proposed subscription price increase, effective March 1. This request was articulated by Mr. Ondaje Ijagwu, the FCCPC Director of Corporate Affairs, during a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday.
The summon mandates the Chief Executive Officer of MultiChoice Nigeria to attend an investigative meeting at FCCPC’s headquarters on Thursday, following concerns over frequent unilateral price hikes by the company. Such actions raise suspicions of potential market dominance abuse and anti-competitive practices in Nigeria’s pay-television sector.
The FCCPC expressed serious apprehensions regarding ongoing price increases faced by Nigerian consumers amid allegations that MultiChoice employs varying pricing strategies in different markets, raising questions of fairness and market exploitation. Should MultiChoice not offer satisfactory explanations or adhere to fair market principles, the FCCPC may impose penalties or sanctions to safeguard consumer interests.
The commission is also collaborating with relevant regulatory bodies to promote fair competition and consumer protection within Nigeria’s broadcasting and digital subscription systems. Reportedly, MultiChoice announced on February 24 the adjustments to its service prices, which will take effect from March 1, 2025.
In a communication titled “Price Adjustments for DStv and GOtv Packages,” MultiChoice notified its customers about the upcoming changes. Effective March 1, the DStv Compact package will escalate from N15,700 to N19,000, Compact Plus will increase to N30,000, while the Premium subscription will rise to N44,500. GOtv customers will experience a slight increase from N3,600 to N3,900, and the GOtv Plus fee will adjust from N4,850 to N5,800.
In summary, the FCCPC’s summons for MultiChoice reflects growing concerns regarding frequent subscription price hikes and potential anti-competitive practices in Nigeria’s pay-television market. The commission is poised to take action to protect consumer rights if MultiChoice does not provide adequate justification for the price increases. This situation highlights the ongoing regulatory scrutiny aimed at ensuring fair competition in the broadcasting industry.
Original Source: nannews.ng
