FCCPC Directs MultiChoice Nigeria to Maintain Subscription Prices During Investigation

The FCCPC has directed MultiChoice Nigeria to halt its planned price hike, requiring it to maintain current subscription rates amid an ongoing investigation into potential market dominance and anti-competitive practices. The company is scheduled for an investigative hearing on March 6, 2025, and must comply with existing prices as of February 27, 2025, to safeguard consumer interests.

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has instructed MultiChoice Nigeria to maintain its existing subscription prices pending the conclusion of an ongoing investigation into a proposed price increase. This directive follows the company’s request for an extension regarding its appearance before the Commission. MultiChoice is now mandated to attend an investigative hearing on March 6, 2025, along with relevant officials and a detailed response to the Commission’s inquiries.

The FCCPC has emphasized that MultiChoice must adhere to its current pricing structure as of February 27, 2025, while the investigation is conducted. This measure is intended to protect consumers from potential harm due to the proposed increase amidst concerns over the company’s recent unilateral price hikes. The Commission is particularly attentive to issues of market dominance and potential anti-competitive practices in Nigeria’s broadcasting sector, spurred by MultiChoice’s announcement of a planned price hike effective March 1, 2025.

According to a statement from Ondaje Ijagwu, the Director of Corporate Affairs at the FCCPC, the organization is engaged with the sector regulator and other relevant agencies to promote a fair digital subscription market in Nigeria. The FCCPC has expressed grave concerns over the recurring price increases that affect Nigerian consumers and noted discrepancies in the pricing strategies employed by MultiChoice in other markets, which raises issues of fairness and potential market abuse.

The Commission has indicated that should MultiChoice fail to provide an adequate justification or be found in violation of fair market principles, the company may face regulatory penalties, sanctions, or additional corrective actions to protect consumer interests. Further developments regarding this investigation will be communicated as they arise.

In summary, the FCCPC has ordered MultiChoice Nigeria to refrain from increasing subscription prices while it investigates the situation. This action is part of the Commission’s efforts to address consumer concerns regarding potential anti-competitive behavior in the broadcasting industry. MultiChoice must comply with the current pricing structure and provide satisfactory justifications during the upcoming hearing to avoid penalties.

Original Source: businessday.ng