The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has filed a lawsuit against MultiChoice Nigeria Ltd. and its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. John Ugbe, for defying regulatory directives and obstructing an ongoing inquiry.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, the FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Mr. Ondaje Ijagwu, said the company had ignored the commission’s instructions and proceeded with a price hike despite clear directives to maintain its existing subscription rates for DStv and GOtv.
The commission had directed MultiChoice Nigeria on February 27 to halt any price adjustments pending the conclusion of an inquiry into its proposed increase. However, the company went ahead with the hike on March 1, openly violating the order.
The FCCPC stated that the disregard for regulatory oversight prompted it to file charges against MultiChoice Nigeria and its CEO at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division.
The charges include willfully obstructing the commission’s inquiry by implementing the price hike against directives, impeding an ongoing investigation by ignoring instructions to suspend the increase, and attempting to mislead the commission by proceeding with the hike without addressing objections.
According to the FCCPC, MultiChoice’s actions amount to a deliberate attempt to undermine regulatory authority, distort market fairness, and deny consumers the protections granted under the law.
The commission described the company’s conduct as a direct affront to regulatory processes, emphasizing that it demonstrated a pattern of behavior that disregards consumer rights and fair competition.
Beyond the lawsuit, the FCCPC said it is reviewing additional enforcement measures, including sanctions, penalties, and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance and accountability.
It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers from exploitative business practices and ensuring that dominant industry players adhere to fair market principles and legal requirements.(NAN)
