FCCPC Sues MultiChoice Nigeria Over Regulatory Violations

Regulatory Breach: FCCPC Takes MultiChoice to Court

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has filed a lawsuit against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its CEO, John Ugbe, for allegedly violating regulatory directives and obstructing an ongoing inquiry. The dispute centers on MultiChoice’s decision to increase subscription prices for its DStv and GOtv packages on March 1, 2025, despite the FCCPC’s instruction to maintain existing pricing during a review of the proposed hike.

The FCCPC’s legal action, initiated at the Federal High Court in Lagos, includes three charges under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018:

1. Obstruction of Inquiry: Allegedly implementing the price increase contrary to FCCPC directives, thereby hindering the commission’s investigation.
2. Impeding Investigation: Ignoring instructions to suspend the price hike, thereby obstructing the ongoing inquiry.
3. Misleading the Commission: Proceeding with the price increase without objection, potentially deceiving the regulatory body.

The FCCPC condemned MultiChoice’s actions as a deliberate attempt to undermine regulatory authority, disrupt market fairness, and deny consumer protection. The commission is considering further enforcement measures, including potential sanctions and penalties, to ensure compliance and accountability.