The Federal High Court in Abuja has halted the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) from taking any action against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited over its controversial DStv and GOtv price increase.
Justice James Omotosho delivered the decisive ruling after hearing an ex-parte motion filed by MultiChoice’s legal team, led by senior lawyer Moyosore Onigbanjo, SAN.
The court ordered the FCCPC to refrain from imposing any sanctions or taking “any administrative steps” against the pay-TV giant pending further legal proceedings.
The ruling comes amid rising tensions between MultiChoice and the FCCPC, which had summoned the company’s CEO to justify the March 1 subscription fee hike.
Accusing the company of potential market dominance abuse and anti-competitive practices, the FCCPC had warned of regulatory sanctions should MultiChoice fail to provide satisfactory explanations.
However, MultiChoice fought back, challenging the FCCPC’s authority to regulate prices in Nigeria’s free-market economy.
The company argued that its rates remain the lowest across its operating regions, citing a stark comparison: Nigeria’s Premium package costs $29.81, whereas the same plan in Kenya costs a staggering $85.11.
Despite the FCCPC’s directive to suspend the price hike, MultiChoice proceeded with the increment, prompting a fierce regulatory battle.
The court’s ruling now shields the company from any punitive measures by the commission until the case is determined.
With an accelerated hearing set for March 27, the legal showdown between MultiChoice and the FCCPC is far from over.
