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FCCPC orders MultiChoice to halt subscription hike amid investigation

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The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has ordered MultiChoice Nigeria to maintain its current subscription rates.

Consequently, this directive ensures no tariff adjustments occur during the ongoing investigation into the company’s proposed changes.

On Thursday, FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, announced this decision in a statement.

Additionally, the commission responded to MultiChoice’s request for an extension regarding its scheduled appearance.

While the FCCPC granted the postponement, it rescheduled the hearing for March 6, 2025.

Furthermore, the commission mandated the attendance of MultiChoice’s CEO and key officers, alongside a detailed response to the inquiry.

“The FCCPC explicitly instructed MultiChoice to maintain its current price structure as of February 27, 2025.

Consequently, this directive remains effective until the commission finalizes its review and reaches a conclusive decision.

The regulatory body highlighted that the price freeze aims to safeguard consumers from potential exploitation during the ongoing investigation.

Previously, the FCCPC summoned MultiChoice’s CEO for an investigative hearing on February 27, 2025.

MultiChoice announced a planned price adjustment, set to begin on March 1, 2025.

Consequently, this inquiry was initiated to address the implications of the proposed changes. The move aims to ensure transparency and fairness for all stakeholders involved.

The commission’s actions underscore its commitment to protecting consumer interests amid corporate pricing changes.

In its notice titled “Price Adjustments for DStv and GOtv Packages,” the company informed subscribers of changes across all DStv packages.

While it cited the need to review its pricing structure to continue delivering premium content, the announcement sparked widespread concerns among subscribers.

Under the proposed adjustments, certain packages, including DStv Compact, would see price increases, while the Compact Plus and Premium bouquets would remain priced at N30,000 and N44,500, respectively.

The FCCPC reiterated its commitment to safeguarding consumer rights and ensuring fair pricing practices in the market.

The commission’s investigation seeks to determine whether MultiChoice’s pricing strategy aligns with regulatory standards and does not unfairly burden consumers.

Further updates on the matter are expected following the March 2025 hearing.