Abuja's Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal (CCPT) has issued an interim order preventing Multi-Choice Nigeria Limited from implementing its proposed tariff and service cost hikes, scheduled to take effect on May 1.
The three-member tribunal, led by Saratu Shafii, granted the order following an ex-parte motion brought by Ejiro Awaritoma, counsel to Festus Onifade, the applicant.
The ruling prohibits Multi-Choice from proceeding with the price adjustments until the motion on notice filed before the tribunal is heard and determined. Shafii emphasized the importance of protecting consumers' rights and directed all involved parties to attend a hearing on May 7. Onifade, a legal practitioner, initiated the suit against Multi-Choice Nigeria Ltd and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) on April 24.
MultiChoice Nigeria had previously announced plans to raise subscription costs for its DStv and GOtv packages, attributing the decision to increased business operation expenses.
The tribunal's intervention underscores the significance of regulatory oversight in safeguarding consumer interests amidst rising concerns about affordability and fairness in the pay-TV industry.
