Tribunal Orders Multichoice Nigeria to Offer Free Subscriptions and Halts Price Increases

In a significant ruling, the tribunal has mandated Multichoice Nigeria to provide one-month free subscriptions on its DStv and GOtv services for Nigerian customers.

On April 24, Multichoice Nigeria announced a 25% increase in subscription costs for its DStv and GOtv packages. This was the second price hike in six months, following a previous increase of at least 19%.

However, the tribunal intervened on April 29, ordering Multichoice to halt these planned price increases, which were set to take effect on May 1.

In a ruling delivered on Friday, a three-member panel chaired by Justice Thomas Okosu referenced Section 39(2) of the FCCPC Act. This section grants the tribunal jurisdiction over all commercial activities within Nigeria aimed at making a profit.

“The jurisdiction of this tribunal extends to all business activities within Nigeria,” Justice Okosu stated.

The tribunal criticized Multichoice for disregarding its interim orders and condemned the company’s repeated price hikes as unacceptable. The tribunal emphasized that such actions should not be tolerated.

This ruling highlights the tribunal’s commitment to regulating commercial activities and protecting consumer interests in Nigeria.

Picture Cred: All Africa.com