Abuja Court to Rule on DStv, GOtv Price Hike in May
On May 8, 2025, a Federal High Court in Abuja will deliver its verdict on a legal dispute between MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) regarding recent price increases for DStv and GOtv services. Justice James Omotosho fixed the date after both parties presented their cases, following months of contention over the pay-TV provider’s pricing strategy.
Recall that on February 24, Neusroom reported that MultiChoice adjusted their monthly subscription to the following:
- DSTV Compact: Increase from N15,700 to N19,000 (a 25% rise).
- DStv Compact Plus: Increase from N25,000 to N30,000 (20% hike).
- DStv Premium: Increase from N37,000 to N44,500 (20% increment).
- GOtv Supa Plus: Increase from N15,700 to N16,800, among other adjustments.
The increment triggered a swift response from the FCCPC. In February 2025, the commission demanded that MultiChoice’s CEO appear at an investigative hearing to explain the hikes, citing concerns over recurring increases, possible exploitation of market power, and unfair practices in Nigeria’s pay-TV sector.
The FCCPC warned of penalties if the company couldn’t justify its actions. MultiChoice countered by filing an ex parte motion (FHC/ABJ/CS/379/2025), securing a court order from Justice Omotosho that temporarily blocked the FCCPC from acting against it.
Led by lawyer Moyosore J. Onibanjo (SAN), MultiChoice argued that Nigeria’s free-market system grants businesses pricing autonomy, and that the FCCPC lacks legal grounds to dictate or penalize rate changes. The company also requested an injunction to shield it from sanctions until a broader motion is resolved. Meanwhile, the FCCPC filed its own suit in a Lagos High Court, accusing MultiChoice of flouting regulations and hindering its probe.
Many Nigerians have voiced frustration over the price rises, pointing to limited alternatives in the pay-TV market. The May ruling could either affirm MultiChoice’s pricing freedom or bolster regulatory control, with significant implications for consumers and the industry.
