Tribunal grants withdrawal of MultiChoice Nigeria subscription price hike case
"The Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal has allowed the withdrawal of a case filed by Barrister Festus Onifade against MultiChoice Nigeria, challenging the company's decision to increase subscription prices. The three-member panel, led by Thomas Okosu, granted the withdrawal on Monday after Onifade made an oral application to discontinue the case.
The tribunal had previously imposed a ₦150 million fine on MultiChoice and ordered a one-month free subscription for disobeying interim orders that prohibited price hikes for DSTV and GOTV. The ruling came after Onifade argued that MultiChoice failed to provide adequate notice of a planned price increase set for May 1, 2024.
Despite MultiChoice's appeal and request for an adjournment, the tribunal proceeded with the matter. However, Onifade decided to withdraw the case, citing concerns that the legal process might be delayed due to the tribunal's vacation period.
The price increase issue began when MultiChoice announced adjustments to its packages in April 2024, citing rising operational costs. Despite the legal proceedings, the company went ahead with the price hike, resulting in a 25-26% increase across its packages. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has stated that it will review the reasons for the price adjustment and consider involving regulatory bodies like the National Broadcasting Commission. The price increase has reportedly led to an 18% decline in active DSTV subscribers in Nigeria."
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