Tribunal Fines Multichoice N150m, Orders 30-day Free Subscriptions
In a remarkable ruling, the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, led by Justice Thomas Okosu, fined Multichoice Nigeria N150 million. The tribunal, which consisted of three members, also ordered Multichoice to provide its consumers with a one-month free subscription to its DStv and GOtv platforms.
The case developed from a lawsuit filed by lawyer Festus Onifade, who challenged Multichoice’s decision to increase subscription prices effective from May 1, 2024. Initially, the tribunal issued a restraining order preventing the price increase while the motion was being reviewed.
However, Multichoice contested the tribunal's jurisdiction over the case, prompting additional legal proceedings. Despite their objection, the tribunal upheld its authority and issued the ruling on Friday, providing short-term relief to DStv and GOtv subscribers in Nigeria.