In Nigeria, the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a restraining order against the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), preventing it from taking administrative actions against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited concerning the recent increase in DStv and GOtv package prices.
Justice James Omotosho made the ruling in response to an ex parte motion filed by MultiChoice’s legal representative, Moyosore J. Onigbanjo (SAN), under case number FHC/ABJ/CS/379/2025. The court’s decision came after Onigbanjo presented arguments seeking to block any regulatory actions from the FCCPC against MultiChoice.
The FCCPC had previously summoned MultiChoice to explain the price increase that took effect on March 1 and demanded the company’s chief executive officer appear for a hearing on February 27. The commission expressed concerns over recurrent price hikes, possible abuse of market dominance, and anti-competitive behaviour in the pay-TV sector. They warned that if MultiChoice could not justify its price adjustments or adhere to fair market practices, it would face regulatory repercussions.
In the motion filed by MultiChoice’s legal team, the company sought an interim injunction to stop the FCCPC and its officials from implementing any threats discussed in a letter dated March 3. The letter called for the company to delay the planned price increase while the motion for a longer-lasting injunction was under consideration. The motion aimed to prevent the commission from interfering with MultiChoice’s business operations until the case was resolved.
Onigbanjo argued that Nigeria follows a free-market economy model in which the prices of goods and services are not subject to strict regulation. He contended that the FCCPC does not possess the authority to control pricing or demand prior approval from businesses for changes in service costs. He pointed out that MultiChoice had notified the FCCPC of its intended price increase in a letter dated February 21, but the FCCPC responded on February 27 with a directive to halt this increase.
After filing for legal action on March 3 regarding the FCCPC’s authority, MultiChoice proceeded with its planned price hike. Despite the ongoing litigation, the FCCPC threatened to take action against MultiChoice in a letter on March 3, prompting the firm to seek judicial protection.
In an affidavit submitted by Gozie Onumonu, the head of Regulatory Affairs and Government Relations at MultiChoice, the company’s subscription rates in Nigeria are the most competitive compared to other countries. For example, the Premium package in Nigeria costs US$29.81, whereas it is priced at US$85.11 in Kenya.
On Wednesday, as the case was heard, Onigbanjo reiterated the request for a court order. Following the arguments, Justice Omotosho ruled in favour of MultiChoice, prohibiting the FCCPC from taking any administrative action against the company until the matter is resolved. The judge also expedited the hearing process and scheduled the next court session for March 27.
