Federal Government fixes October 7, 2025, for MultiChoice Nigeria court arraignment over alleged violations of consumer protection and competition laws

[dropcap]M[/dropcap]ultiChoice Nigeria court arraignment has been fixed for October 7, 2025, following charges brought by the Federal Government over alleged breaches of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018.

Also read: MultiChoice Nigeria revenue plunges 44% as customer base shrinks

The case, which involves top executives of the pay-TV giant, including Chairman Adewunmi Ogunsanya and Managing Director John Ugbe, was adjourned to ensure proper service of court documents.

Justice James Omotosho presided over the matter at the Federal High Court, Abuja, where neither Ogunsanya nor Ugbe was present when the case was called.

Counsel to the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Chizenum Nsitem, requested a new date, citing improper service on the defendants.

The court accepted the submission and scheduled the arraignment for October.

Also listed for arraignment are MultiChoice Africa Holdings CEO Fhulufhelo Badugela, CFO Retiel Tromp, Group Executive for Corporate Affairs Keabetswe Modimoeng, Director Adebusola Bello,

Fuad Ogunsanya, and Head of Regulatory Affairs Gozie Onumonu. The company itself stands as the first defendant in the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/197/2025.

Count one accuses the company of failing to honour a lawful summons issued by the FCCPC on 25 February to appear before the commission on 6 March, without giving a valid reason.

Count six alleges that the defendants impeded an ongoing investigation by refusing to produce documents requested by the regulator. Both acts, according to the FCCPC, are in direct violation of Sections 33(3) and 110 of the FCCP Act.

The charges are part of a growing legal battle between MultiChoice and the commission, triggered by a controversial subscription fee increase announced on 1 March.

The FCCPC said the hike raised red flags around anti-competitive practices and possible market dominance abuse within the pay-TV industry.

It further warned that the company could face sanctions if it failed to justify the changes under fair market conditions.

In an attempt to halt the investigation, MultiChoice had approached the Federal High Court. However, on 8 May, Justice Omotosho dismissed the suit, labelling it an abuse of court process.

The court noted that a similar suit had already been filed by consumer rights advocate Festus Onifade.

Also read: MultiChoice loses legal battle against FCCPC’s attempt to halt price increase

The looming October arraignment is expected to test the FCCPC’s regulatory muscle and may set a precedent for how competition laws are enforced in Nigeria’s media and entertainment sector.