The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has filed a lawsuit against MultiChoice Nigeria Ltd. and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, for allegedly violating regulatory directives.
In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, the commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, disclosed that the company was also charged with obstructing an ongoing investigation and engaging in actions that contravene the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.
The FCCPC stated that it had directed MultiChoice Nigeria on February 27 to maintain its current pricing structure for DStv and GOtv until an assessment of its proposed price increase was completed. However, despite this order, the company proceeded with the price hike on March 1, in direct defiance of the commission’s directive.
“As a result of this regulatory violation, the FCCPC has filed charges against MultiChoice Nigeria and John Ugbe at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division,” the statement read.
The charges include:
- Obstructing the commission’s inquiry by implementing a price increase contrary to directives (Section 33(4)).
- Interfering with the ongoing investigation by disregarding instructions to suspend the hike (Section 110).
- Attempting to mislead the commission by proceeding without objection (Section 159(2)), which carries penalties under Section 159(4)(a) and (b).
The commission condemned MultiChoice’s actions, describing them as a deliberate effort to undermine regulatory authority, disrupt market fairness, and deny consumers the protection guaranteed by law.
Furthermore, the FCCPC stated that MultiChoice’s defiance of regulatory procedures reflects a pattern of behaviour that threatens consumer rights and fair competition.
In addition to the legal action, the FCCPC is considering further enforcement measures, including sanctions, penalties, and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance and accountability.
The commission reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumers from exploitative business practices and ensuring that dominant industry players adhere to fair market regulations and legal requirements.
Credit: NAN (Text Excluding Headline)
