A Nigerian court has put a temporary hold on MultiChoice Nigeria Limited’s planned increase in subscription prices for its DStv and GOtv services. The Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal (CCPT), sitting in Abuja, issued an interim order on Monday, April 29th, 2024, just days before the price hike was scheduled to take effect on May 1st.
Consumer Challenges Price Increase
This decision comes after Festus Onifade, represented by lawyer Ejiro Awaritoma, filed an ex-parte motion before the CCPT challenging MultiChoice’s planned price increase. The three-member tribunal, led by Judge Saratu Shafii, granted the interim order, effectively preventing MultiChoice from implementing the new pricing structure until the full case is heard and decided.
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Hearing Scheduled for May 7th
The order mandates all parties involved, including MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), to appear before the tribunal on May 7th, 2024, at 10:00 AM. This hearing will determine the fate of the price hike and provide an opportunity for both sides to present their arguments.
Background of the Price Hike
MultiChoice had previously announced an increase in subscription fees for both DStv and GOtv packages, citing rising operational costs in Nigeria. This announcement sparked discontent among many subscribers who felt the price hike was unjustified in the current economic climate.
Uncertain Future for Price Increase
The CCPT’s interim order throws the planned price increase into uncertainty. The upcoming hearing on May 7th will be crucial in determining whether the price hike will be allowed to proceed or permanently blocked. This case highlights the growing tension between service providers looking to maintain profitability and consumers grappling with rising costs.
