The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed May 8 for judgment in the case between MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC). Justice James Omotosho set the date after both parties presented their arguments regarding MultiChoice’s price increase on DStv and GOtv.
MultiChoice Challenges FCCPC’s Authority Over Price Control
MultiChoice, through its lead counsel, Onigbanjo, argued that the FCCPC lacks the legal power to regulate the prices of goods and services, including subscription fees for DStv and GOtv. He maintained that price control is only within the powers of the President of Nigeria, who has publicly stated that his government does not interfere with pricing but allows the market to determine costs.
The plaintiff also accused the FCCPC of discrimination, stating that other businesses have increased their prices without facing similar regulatory actions. “If the FCCPC has no powers to fix prices, how can it stop us from increasing ours?” MultiChoice’s lawyer argued.
FCCPC Defends Its Oversight Powers
In response, the FCCPC’s lead counsel, Professor Joe Agbugu (SAN), stated that the Commission is not attempting to fix prices but is investigating whether MultiChoice’s price hike is exploitative. He emphasized that the FCCPC Act grants the agency the authority to check excessive pricing and abuse of market dominance, especially in industries where consumers have limited alternatives.
According to Agbugu, MultiChoice holds a dominant position in the Nigerian entertainment industry, making it subject to stricter regulatory scrutiny. “This is not about price fixing; it’s about protecting consumers from exploitation,” he explained.
Court Reserves Judgment Until May 8
After hearing both sides, Justice Omotosho reserved judgment until May 8, leaving consumers and industry stakeholders waiting to see if MultiChoice will be allowed to continue its price adjustments without FCCPC interference.
