The FCCPC has ordered MultiChoice Nigeria to suspend its planned DStv and GOtv price hike pending an ongoing investigation into tariff adjustments

[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has directed MultiChoice Nigeria, the operator of DStv and GOtv, to halt its proposed subscription price increase pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation into the company’s tariff adjustments.

Also read: FCCPC summons MultiChoice Nigeria over planned subscription price hike

The directive was announced in a statement on Thursday, signed by the FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu.

The consumer protection agency emphasised the need to prevent potential exploitation of consumers during the review process.

This order follows MultiChoice’s request for an extension regarding its scheduled appearance before the FCCPC, amid mounting concerns over the company’s frequent price increases.

Initially, the commission had summoned MultiChoice’s Chief Executive Officer for an investigative hearing on February 27, but the session was rescheduled to March 6, 2025, following the company’s plea for more time.

The FCCPC’s statement clarified that MultiChoice must maintain its existing pricing structure as of February 27, 2025, until the investigation is concluded and a final decision is made.

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

The price freeze aims to protect consumers from arbitrary pricing while the inquiry is ongoing.

MultiChoice had previously notified customers of an impending price adjustment set to take effect on March 1, 2025, citing rising costs of delivering premium local and international content as the reason.

According to the company’s notice titled “Price Adjustments for DStv and GOtv Packages”, the Premium and Compact Plus packages would remain at ₦44,500 and ₦30,000 respectively, but other packages, including the popular DStv Compact, were set to be affected by the price hike.

Also read: MultiChoice Nigeria raises DStv compact price by 21% amid subscriber backlash

As the investigation unfolds, the FCCPC has assured the public that further updates will be provided, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding consumers against unfair pricing practices.