The Federal Competition
and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria to
explain its proposed subscription price increase, set to take effect on March
1, 2025. Exercising its mandate under Sections 32 and 33 of the FCCPA, the
FCCPC directed the Chief Executive Officer of MultiChoice Nigeria to attend an
investigative hearing at the Commission's headquarters on Thursday, February
27, 2025.
This action follows
MultiChoice’s formal notification of the price adjustment, which raises
concerns about recurrent unilateral price hikes, potential market dominance
abuse, and perceived anti-competitive practices in the pay-TV industry.
The FCCPC is deeply
concerned that Nigerian consumers continue to face frequent price increases,
amid accusations that MultiChoice applies different pricing strategies in other
markets, heightening questions about fairness and market abuse.
Should MultiChoice fail
to provide satisfactory explanations or be found in violation of fair market
principles, the FCCPC will be left left with no other option than to impose
regulatory penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures to protect Nigerian
consumers. Furthermore, the FCCPC is engaging the sector regulator and other
relevant agencies to ensure fair competition and consumer protection within
Nigeria’s broadcasting and digital subscription landscape.
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