Reps ask MultiChoice to suspend DStv, GOtv subscription price hike

The House of Representatives has asked MultiChoice Nigeria to suspend the hike in the subscription rates of DStv and GOtv packages.

This followed a similar directive by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) which was shunned by the company.

The lower legislative chamber resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by a lawmaker from Edo State, Esosa lyawe, at Tuesday’s plenary in Abuja.

In his presentation, lyawe said price increases always have a widespread impact and put consumers under undue pressure due to the dominant position of Multichoice in the pay-TV sector.

READ ALSO: FCCPC orders MultiChoice to maintain old prices for DSTV, GOTV

He said the recent hike has triggered widespread criticism from subscribers, “many of whom have taken to social media to express their frustration over frequent price hikes without a corresponding improvement in the quality of service.”

The motion was adopted when the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, subjected it to a voice vote.

Consequently, the House mandated the committee on information to investigate the arbitrary increase in subscription prices by Multichoice to ensure implementation of cost-effective policies in the pay-TV sector for consumers.

By: Babajide Okeowo

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