FCCPC files charges against MultiChoice for violating regulatory directives

The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has formally filed charges against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and John Ugbe, its Chief Executive Officer, for violating regulatory directives.

According to the Commission, MultiChoice is obstructing an ongoing inquiry and engaging in conduct deemed violations of the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

Last week, MultiChoice Nigeria had been directed by the FCCPC to maintain its current pricing structure for DStv and GOtv pending the conclusion of an examination of its proposed price hike.

However, despite this directive, the company proceeded with its price increase on March 1, 2025, in clear defiance of the Commission’s directive.

The FCCPC has now taken action following this non-compliance.

The Commission has filed charges against MultiChoice Nigeria and its CEO on three counts of offences under the FCCPA 2018, specifically for willfully obstructing the Commission’s inquiry by implementing a price hike contrary to directives (Section 33(4)), impeding the ongoing investigation by ignoring instructions to suspend the hike (Section 110), and attempting to mislead the Commission by proceeding with the increase without objection (Section 159(2), punishable under Section 159(4)(a) and (b)).

The Commission noted in a statement signed by Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs on its X handle that it views MultiChoice’s actions as a deliberate and calculated attempt to undermine regulatory authority, disrupt market fairness, and deny Nigerian consumers the protection afforded under the law.

It said, “By disregarding the FCCPC’s directive and implementing the price hike before appearing before the Commission’s investigative hearing on March 6, 2025, MultiChoice has not only flouted regulatory processes but also demonstrated a pattern of conduct that undermines consumer rights and fair competition.”

The FCCPC notes that it is also reviewing further enforcement measures, including sanctions, penalties, and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance and accountability.