Worried by public criticisms that trailed the subscription hike by DSTV and GOTV,
the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned MultiChoice, the parent company, over the planned increase in its cable TV subscription prices.
Metrobusinessnews.com (MBN) had reported that Multichoice is preparing to implement a 21% increase in the subscription fee for its DStv Compact package, raising the price from ₦15,700 to ₦19,000, effective March 1, 2025.
The increase comes nearly a year after the last price review.
In reaction, FCCPC in a statement on Tuesday disclosed that Multichoice is billed to attend an investigative hearing at its headquarters on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
The commission, through its Director, Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, expresses concern at the rate Nigerian consumers continue to face frequent price increases.
The agency further highlighted the issues related to ongoing unilateral price hikes, potential abuse of market dominance, and perceived anti-competitive practices within the pay TV industry.
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Ijagwu stated that the summons exercised the powers of the FCCPC, as outlined in sections 32 and 33 of its founding legislation.
The statement also mentioned that if Multichoice fails to provide satisfactory justifications for its actions or is found to be violating fair market principles, the FCCPC will impose regulatory penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures to protect Nigerian consumers.