By Gwurld4026 
Judgment Date Announced in MultiChoice Tariff Increase Case
The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled May 8, 2025, to deliver its judgment in the lawsuit filed by MultiChoice Nigeria Limited against the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). This case centers on MultiChoice’s recent subscription fee increases for its DStv and GOtv services and the FCCPC’s subsequent actions.
Background of the Dispute:
- FCCPC’s Directive: In February 2025, the FCCPC summoned MultiChoice to explain the planned price adjustments and directed the company to suspend the increases pending a regulatory review.
- MultiChoice’s Response: Despite the FCCPC’s directive, MultiChoice proceeded with the price adjustments on March 1, 2025, leading to the current legal proceedings.
Legal Proceedings:
- Court’s Interim Order: On March 12, 2025, Justice James Omotosho issued an interim order restraining the FCCPC from sanctioning MultiChoice until the substantive suit is determined.
- Arguments Presented: MultiChoice’s counsel argues that the FCCPC lacks the authority to regulate prices in a free-market economy, asserting that only the President has such powers. Conversely, the FCCPC maintains that it has the mandate to protect consumers from exploitative pricing and unfair business practices.
Implications:
The court’s forthcoming judgment will clarify the extent of the FCCPC’s regulatory authority over pricing in Nigeria’s free-market economy and could set a precedent for how subscription-based services adjust their fees in the future.