FCCPC Halts MultiChoice Nigeria’s Price Hike Amid Ongoing Investigation

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has ordered MultiChoice Nigeria, the operator of DStv and GOtv, to maintain its current subscription prices until an ongoing investigation into the company’s proposed tariff adjustment is concluded.

This directive, announced on Thursday by Ondaje Ijagwu, FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, comes after MultiChoice requested an extension for its scheduled appearance before the commission over repeated price increases.

FCCPC Reschedules MultiChoice Hearing

While the FCCPC granted MultiChoice’s request to postpone its hearing, the company’s appearance has now been rescheduled for March 6, 2025. The commission has mandated the attendance of the company’s CEO and other key officers, along with a comprehensive response to the ongoing inquiry.

As part of the directive, the commission stated:

“MultiChoice is expressly instructed to maintain the existing price structure as of February 27, 2025, pending the commission’s review and final determination on the matter.”

This price freeze aims to protect consumers from potential exploitation during the investigation period.

Proposed Price Adjustment Sparks Outrage

Earlier this week, MultiChoice announced a planned price increase across its DStv and GOtv packages, set to take effect from March 1, 2025. Under the proposed adjustment:

• DStv Compact package prices would increase
• Compact Plus remains at N30,000
• Premium bouquet stays at N44,500

MultiChoice justified the adjustment by citing a review of its pricing structure to continue delivering world-class content, but the announcement was met with public outcry from subscribers already frustrated by recurring hikes.

What’s Next?

With the March 6 hearing approaching, consumers are eagerly awaiting the FCCPC’s decision on this matter. The commission’s firm stance signals its commitment to protecting Nigerian consumers from unjustified price increases, ensuring fairness and transparency in the pay-TV sector.

Written by Boom RadioNG