MultiChoice Nigeria has blatantly disregarded a court order and hiked subscription rates for its DStv and GOtv bouquets. This move has sparked outrage among Nigerians, as it defies an interim injunction issued by the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal (CCPT) in Abuja.

On Monday, the CCPT explicitly prohibited MultiChoice Nigeria from adjusting its subscription prices, which were scheduled to increase on May 1. However, reports indicate that the higher rates have already been implemented, infuriating millions of subscribers.

“This CCPT ruling was initially seen as a victory for consumers facing economic challenges,” said a consumer rights advocate. “But MultiChoice’s actions raise serious concerns about its ethics and respect for the law.”

The company’s defiance has sparked widespread outrage, with consumers accusing MultiChoice of disregarding both the legal system and their interests.

In a twist to the controversy, the Tribunal has approved substituted service of the interim order after reports that MultiChoice’s Abuja office refused to accept the court documents. Festus Onifade, the applicant in the case, informed NAN that the Abuja office instructed that documents be sent to their Lagos headquarters.

“The Tribunal has ordered substituted service under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 and the CCPT Rule, 2021,” said Saratu Shafii, presiding over the Tribunal. This decision emphasizes the Tribunal’s determination to ensure MultiChoice’s compliance with its orders. CONTINUE READING