Court Restrains Multi-Choice From Implementing DStv, GOtv Price Hike In Nigeria
The Consumers Protection Court has issued an order preventing Multichoice Nigeria Limited from implementing its planned price hike for DSTV and GOTV subscriptions. The decision follows an ex-parte motion filed by Festus Onifade’s counsel, Ejiro Awaritoma, before the three-member panel of the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal in Abuja, led by Saratu Shafii.
Multichoice had recently announced an increase in subscription prices for its DStv and GOtv packages, citing rising production costs in the country. This adjustment, the second in four months, was set to take effect on May 1, 2024, affecting both new subscribers and existing customers renewing their packages. The price hike varied between 20% to 26%, depending on the package, with increases ranging from N1,100 to N7,500.
The company justified the move as necessary to maintain quality content delivery to subscribers’ homes across Nigeria. However, Onifade challenged the decision in court, seeking an interim injunction to halt the price increase pending a hearing and determination of the motion on notice.
In response to the motion, the court restrained Multichoice from implementing the announced price increments, emphasizing the need to protect consumers’ rights. The court directed all parties involved to appear for a hearing on May 7 at 10 am.
This legal intervention highlights the ongoing struggle between service providers seeking to adjust prices to cover rising costs and consumers seeking affordability and fairness. It also underscores the role of regulatory bodies in safeguarding consumer interests and ensuring a balance between business operations and consumer rights.
Sahara Reporters…
