A competition and consumer protection tribunal (CCPT) has imposed a N150 million fine on Multichoice Nigeria for defying the court’s order.
Additionally, on Friday, 7 June, 2024, the tribunal ordered the company to offer Nigerians one-month free subscriptions to DStv and GOtv, as reported by the Cable.
The sequence of events began on April 24, when Multichoice Nigeria announced a price increase for its DStv and GOtv packages. However, the tribunal intervened on April 29, halting the planned price hike that was set to take effect on Monday, 1 May, 2024.
Multichoice Nigeria responded by challenging the tribunal’s decision to restrict the price increase. Represented by their lawyer, Moyosore Onibanjo, the company filed an application on April 30 questioning the tribunal’s jurisdiction over the price control order.
In the tribunal’s ruling, a three-man panel led by Thomas Okosu referenced Section 39(2) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) Act.
This Section clarifies that the “tribunal shall have jurisdiction throughout the federation and on all commercial activities aimed at making a profit.” Okosu asserted, “The jurisdiction of this tribunal extends to all business activities within Nigeria.”
Okosu elaborated that after reviewing the relevant provisions cited by both parties, he found no stipulation requiring an aggrieved consumer to lodge a complaint with the Nigerian President or the price control board to enforce their rights.
Okosu stated, “I have come to the conclusion that this tribunal has the jurisdiction to preside over consumer rights as in the instant case and I resolve this issue against Multichoice.”
