Court stops FCCPC from sanctioning MultiChoice over hike in subscription rates

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Wednesday, restrained the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) from sanctioning MultiChoice Nigeria Limited following its recent increase in the DStv and GOtv subscription rates.

The judge gave the order in an ex-parte motion moved by MultiChoice’s counsel, Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN).

He ordered FCCPC not to take “any administrative steps” against the pay-Tv company.

FCCPC had summoned MultiChoice Nigeria Limited to provide explanations on the March 1 price review of its packages.

The commission directed the company’s chief executive officer to appear for an investigative hearing on February 27 and raised concerns over frequent price hikes, potential market dominance abuse and anti-competitive practices within the pay-TV industry.

The FCCPC also threatened to sanction the company for failing to justify the price adjustment or comply with fair market principles.

READ ALSO: Reps ask MultiChoice to suspend DStv, GOtv subscription price hike

However, MultiChoice sought an order of interim injunction restraining the FCCPC and its officers from carrying out the threat as communicated via a letter dated March 3 pending the hearing and determination of the motion for an interlocutory injunction.

It also sought an order restraining the commission and its officers from issuing any further directive or taking any steps capable of disrupting its business activities, pending the hearing and determination of the motion for an interlocutory injunction.

The judge, after hearing both parties, restrained the FCCPC from taking any “administrative steps” against MultiChoice pending the determination of the case.

He equally ordered an accelerated hearing on the matter and adjourned the matter till March 27 for hearing.

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