The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has instituted legal action against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, over alleged defiance of regulatory directives and obstruction of an ongoing investigation.
The lawsuit, filed at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, accuses MultiChoice of violating multiple provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
The regulatory commission had on February 27 directed MultiChoice Nigeria to maintain its existing subscription rates for DStv and GOtv, pending a review of the company’s proposed price increase. However, despite this directive, MultiChoice proceeded with its price hike on March 1, disregarding the order. The FCCPC viewed this action as a deliberate attempt to undermine its authority and evade regulatory scrutiny.
In the suit, the FCCPC alleged that MultiChoice and its CEO willfully obstructed its inquiry by implementing the price hike contrary to directives. The company is also accused of impeding an ongoing investigation and attempting to mislead the commission by proceeding with the increase despite clear objections. The charges cite specific violations under Sections 33(4), 110, and 159(2) of the FCCPA 2018, with prescribed penalties under Section 159(4)(a) and (b).
The commission described MultiChoice’s actions as a calculated move to disregard regulatory oversight, disrupt market fairness, and deny Nigerian consumers the protections guaranteed under the law. It further emphasized that the company’s decision to implement the price hike ahead of its scheduled investigative hearing on March 6 amounted to a pattern of defiance against regulatory processes and fair competition principles.
Beyond the legal proceedings, the FCCPC disclosed that it is considering additional enforcement measures, including sanctions and penalties, to ensure compliance and accountability. The commission reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigerian consumers from exploitative business practices and ensuring that dominant players in any sector adhere to fair market principles.