The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, FCCPC, has issued a directive to MultiChoice Nigeria to maintain its current subscription prices until the ongoing investigation into its proposed price hike is concluded.
The Commission, in a statement by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, on Thursday, said the directive followed MultiChoice Nigeria’s request for an extension regarding its scheduled appearance before the Commission.
Recall that MultiChoice, which provides Digital Satellite Television, DSTV, services had announced an increase in subscription fee for all its bouquets, citing growing economic challenges.
Worried by what it described as a potential market dominance abuse in the pay-TV industry, FCCPC summoned MultiChoice to explain its proposed subscription price increase, set to take effect on March 1, 2025.
The company has been accused of incessant price hiking, owing to its dominance in the market and the lack of competition in the industry.
Ijagwu, in the statement on Thursday, said while the FCCPC has granted the request for an extension regarding its scheduled appearance before the commission, the company is now required to attend the rescheduled investigative hearing on March 6, 2025, along with all relevant officers and a comprehensive response.
“Pursuant to this, 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.
“Maintaining the status quo on pricing is essential to prevent any potential consumer harm during this period. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses,” the statement read.
