FCCPC Blocks Multichoice’s DStv, GOtv Price Adjustments

By Adedapo Adesanya

MultiChoice Nigeria, the operator of DStv and GOtv, will have to maintain its current subscription prices pending the conclusion of an ongoing investigation into the company’s proposed tariff adjustment by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

The commission disclosed this in a statement on Thursday by its Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr Ondaje Ijagwu.

The directive follows MultiChoice’s request for an extension regarding its scheduled appearance before the commission over concerns surrounding its recurring price increases.

Although FCCPC granted the company’s request to postpone the session, it has now rescheduled the hearing for March 6, 2025, mandating the company’s CEO, relevant officers, and a comprehensive response to the inquiry.

“As part of this directive, MultiChoice is expressly instructed to maintain the existing price structure as of February 27, 2025, pending the commission’s review and final determination on the matter,” the statement read.

The agency also emphasised that the decision to freeze prices is aimed at preventing potential consumer exploitation during the investigation period.

This comes after the regulator summoned MultiChoice to appear before it on February 27 for an investigative hearing.

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 yesterday.

“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.”

MultiChoice had notified its customers on Monday of the impending price adjustment, citing a review of its pricing structure.

Meanwhile, the company stated that the changes were necessary to continue delivering world-class content, the development sparked concerns from subscribers.

Under the proposed adjustment, the DStv Compact package would be increased, while the Compact Plus and Premium bouquets would remain at N30,000 and N44,500, respectively.

In its notice titled Price Adjustments for DStv and GOtv Packages, the company said, “Dear Customer, please note that effective March 1, 2025, there will be a price adjustment on all DStv packages.