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  • FCCPC cracks down on rebagged, expired rice in Abuja market

    FCCPC cracks down on rebagged, expired rice in Abuja market

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has stormed the Utako Market in Abuja following a tip-off that traders were rebagging local rice in branded imported bags and rebranding expired rice for sale.

    Leading the operation, the FCCPC Director of Surveillance and Investigation, Boladele Adeyinka, stated that the act is a serious offence under the FCCPC Act, attracting administrative penalties and fines. 

    She assured that due process will be followed and the offenders will be prosecuted accordingly.

    Adeyinka added that the commission is committed to removing expired rice and other unsafe products from the market. 

    Read Also: FCCPC and corporate accountability

    She also disclosed that some brands are currently under investigation, and the commission will visit the producers of the fake branded bags used in the rebagging scheme.

    Among the major brands involved are Royal Stallion and Mama Gold rice, which have been banned since 2014 but remain widely available in the market. 

    The FCCPC warned Nigerians to avoid purchasing these products as they are either expired or deceptively rebagged local rice.

    According to Adeyinka, “We are here on an intelligence that there are rebagging of local rice in foreign bags and then the issue of expired rice kept in stock since 2015 being sold in these markets, now we are in 2025. 

    “Because of the appetite for foreign brands, the market cartel are now going about rebagging local rice and selling in foreign bags. That is exploitative and against consumer economic interest. Mama gold rice stopped entering Nigerian market since 2015 and these traders know”. 

    The Utako market Secretary, Igwemma Alex said he is not aware of the atrocities being committed by traders in the market, stressing that even with that the FCCPC should have notified the management of the market before embarking on the surveillance.

  • FCCPC and corporate accountability

    FCCPC and corporate accountability

    In largely underdeveloped capitalist systems such as Nigeria with relatively low levels of institutionalization, weak judicial structures and processes as well as fragile law enforcement, the role of regulatory agencies established to mitigate the negative effects of the operations of market forces, check corporate abuse and irresponsibility and safeguard the interests of consumers and society at large is critical. The leading agency in Nigeria in this regard is the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), which was established through the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018 to facilitate fair, rule-guided business practices while protecting the interests of consumers.

    As lucidly expressed in its mandate statement, the FCCPC’s oversight function is “geared towards promoting competition within the Nigerian economy while preventing any practices that could lead to the abuse of market dominance or monopolies, all for the benefit of consumers. In addition, it investigates anti-competitive practices, including price fixing, bid rigging, market allocation, and the abuse of dominant market positions, for possible legal actions against the involved parties”. Central to its operations is addressing consumer complaints and grievances as regards perceived exploitative prices, substandard goods and services and imposing sanctions or taking legal action against persistent corporate infractions.

    Under its current Chief Executive Officer/Executive Vice Chairman, Mr Olatunji Bello, renowned journalist, editor, lawyer and administrator, who assumed office in June 2024, the FCCPC has significantly scaled up its activities aggressively holding corporate organizations to account while meticulously addressing consumer complaints and grievances. In the statement announcing his appointment, President Tinubu had mandated Tunji Bello to “ensure the holistic realization of the Commission’s mandate of protecting and promoting the interest and welfare of Nigerian consumers, and ensuring the adoption of measures to guarantee the safety and quality of goods and services”. The role of the FCCPC has acquired added significance against the background of the economic hardships attendant on the painful but inevitable economic reforms of the Tinubu administration particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the merger of the parallel foreign exchange markets that had engendered high inflationary spirals that are only gradually beginning to recede.

    Citing high operational costs, corporate organizations in different sectors have increased their tariffs to the consternation of already hard hit consumers despite the fact that many of them continue to report high profit levels. In the telecommunications sector, for instance, there has been a 50 per cent hike in tariffs. In the electricity industry, the regulatory authorities approved an increase in tariff for Band A customers from N68 KWh to N225 KWh but which was later pegged at N209.50. Banks have increased the cost of transacting on Automated Teller Machines (ATM). The Nation newspaper columnist, Sanya Oni, recently cited the example of the private entertainment company, MultiChoice and its subsidiary,  DSTV, and their penchant for arbitrary and incessant price increases.

    In the words of Oni, “For instance, in May 2023, premium package subscribers were hit with a 51.23% increment from N16,200 to N24,500. Six months after, another major increment of 20.41% would follow, pushing the price to N29,500. Yet again, in another six months, that is, in May 2024, the service provider would be back with a new price of N37,000, a leap by another 25.42%; and the latest adjustment effective Saturday, March 1, taking the package to N44,500, a 21% increase – representing over 300% increase using 2015 as a base year”.

    The new resurgent and activist FCCPC, under Tunji Bello, has not been dormant in the face of seemingly whimsical price increases by various corporate organizations. Some of them, unused to having their excesses challenged, have pushed back, outrightly flouting the regulatory agency’s directives or engaging it in legal duels.

    For instance, on Thursday, February 27, the FCCPC directed MultiChoice Nigeria not to effect any new price increases as it had announced until the conclusion of the Commission’s ongoing investigation into the proposed price hikes. It had earlier directed the Chief Executive Officer of the company, Mr John Ugbe, to appear before its investigative hearing to justify the envisaged increases. The FCCPC had stated that “Pursuant to this, MultiChoice is expressly instructed to maintain the existing price structure as of February 27, 2025, pending the Commission’s review and final determination on the matter. Maintaining the status quo on pricing is essential to prevent any potential consumer harm during this period”. However, in a reckless display of the highest disregard and contempt for not just the regulatory authority but Nigeria’s legal system, MultiChoice Nigeria proceeded with its price increase on March 1, 2025.

    Consequently, on March 5, the FCCPC instituted legal proceedings against MultiChoice Nigeria and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, “for violating regulatory directives, obstructing an ongoing inquiry and engaging in conduct deemed violations of the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPC). According to the FCCPC, “By disregarding the FCCPC’S directive and implementing the price hikes before appearing before the Commission’s investigative hearing on March 6, 2025, MultiChoice has not only flouted regulatory processes but also demonstrated a pattern of conduct that undermines consumer rights and fair competition”.  In any self-respecting country,  there should certainly be severe consequences for such contemptuous impunity especially by a foreign entity.

    Earlier, a shareholder of MTN Nigeria who is also a legal practitioner, Emeka Nnubia, had instituted legal proceedings against the FCCPC seeking to halt the regulatory agency’s investigation into suspected potential anti-competitive practices by the MTN. Nnubia contended that the FCCPC’s request for information from MTN violated data protection laws and that regulatory authority over MTN resided with the National Communications Commission (NCC) and not the FCCPC. In his ruling on February 7, 2025, Justice F.N. Ogazi, of the Federal High Court in Lagos, affirmed the statutory authority of the FCCPC to regulate competition and consumer protection across all sectors of the economy and that the regulatory agency’s request for information from MTN did not violate any data protection laws but was undertaken within its statutory powers.

    Read Also: Tariff hike: Court plans judgment for May 8 in MultiChoice suit against FCCPC

    When the NCC approved a 50% adjustment in telecommunications tariffs, the FCCPC warned that “Issues such as network congestion, dropped calls, inconsistent Internet speeds, unusual data depletion, and poor customer service have remained prevalent concerns. It is, therefore, crucial that tariff adjustments directly translate into demonstrable and tangible service enhancements for consumers.”. The FCCPC took on the Ikeja and Eko electricity distribution companies (IKEDC and EKEDC) when they contemplated charging consumers for the cost of replacing ‘obsolete’ meters insisting that the Discos must comply with the order by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) that “meter replacements must be prompt, without disrupting service and at no cost to the consumer; and ensuring that consumers are not subjected to estimated billing due to delayed installations”.

    The FCCPC had also, at various times, engaged other corporate giants like Guarantee Trust Bank (GTB) and Air Peace on alleged violations of consumer rights. It is certainly a new and welcome season of ensuring corporate accountability in Nigeria in the best interest of consumers and society at large.

  • FCCPC, stakeholders tackle DStv over ‘price apartheid’

    FCCPC, stakeholders tackle DStv over ‘price apartheid’

    Apparently railing against what it described as the profiteering tendencies of the operators of the Digital Satellite Television, a Sub-Saharan African direct broadcast satellite service owned by MultiChoice and based in South Africa, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) is not sparing any effort at its disposal to get a good bargain for the consuming publics, reports Ibrahim Apekhade Yusuf

    When MultiChoice Nigeria announced plans to implement a 21% price increase for DStv and GOtv services, effective March 1, 2025, little did it know that it was going to meet with any form of opposition.

    Expectedly, since the decision took effect there have been a series of complaints by consumers many of who perceived the increase as exploitative and discriminatory, especially given price reductions for South African subscribers, and concerns about poor value for money despite persistent service issues.

    Crux of the matter

    The increase has been met with strong criticism, particularly from consumer groups like “Save the Consumers,” who describe it as exploitative and discriminatory, and fueled by the fact that MultiChoice reduced prices for South African subscribers by 38% during the same period.

    This disparity is seen as a double standard, with some arguing that it amounts to economic discrimination against Nigerian consumers.

    More vexing according to concerned stakeholders is the perennial issue of repetitive content, frequent service disruptions and poor value for money being experienced by the consuming public.

    Complaints about these issues have been persistent, yet MultiChoice has not addressed them adequately, according to consumer groups.

    FCCPC to the rescue

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has investigated MultiChoice’s price increases, citing concerns about market dominance and anti-competitive behavior.

    The FCCPC had instructed MultiChoice to maintain its existing pricing structure pending an investigation, but MultiChoice proceeded with the price hike.

    The FCCPC has since initiated legal charges against MultiChoice and its CEO for defying regulatory directives.

    However, MultiChoice claims the price hike is necessary to deliver “world-class content” and to address rising operational costs.

    This is just as consumer groups have argued that this justification is insufficient, given the persistent issues faced by subscribers and the contrasting treatment of South African subscribers.

    A court case is underway between the FCCPC and MultiChoice, with a judgment date set for May 8, 2025.

    The case revolves around MultiChoice’s decision to proceed with the price hike despite the FCCPC’s directives.

    The court is expected to rule on whether MultiChoice’s actions are in violation of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

    A non-governmental Organisation (NGO), Save the Consumers, has strongly condemned the recent 21 per cent price increase imposed by MultiChoice Nigeria on its DStv and GOtv services, effective March 1, 2025.

    The group, which is committed to defending consumer rights, noted that the price adjustment was in stark contrast to the company’s decision to reduce prices by up to 38 per cent and enhance value for its South African subscribers during the same period.

    It described the action as “not only insensitive and exploitative, but also blatantly discriminatory”.

    In a statement, Executive Director, Save the Consumers, Dr. Aliyu Ilias, said, “Coming less than a year after the May 2024 price hike in Nigeria, the new increase openly defies a directive from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) to suspend all price adjustments pending the conclusion of ongoing investigations.

    “It reflects MultiChoice’s clear disregard for both Nigerian consumers and regulatory authority.

    “Even more troubling is the company’s simultaneous enhancement of service offerings and reduction of prices for South African customers.”

    He said, “In South Africa, MultiChoice has lowered fees on various products, added new channels, and introduced features that improve the user experience, all while acknowledging the financial pressures faced by South African households.

    “This double standard, lowering prices at home while increasing them in Nigeria, amounts to economic discrimination and reinforces long-standing concerns about MultiChoice’s exploitative approach toward the Nigerian market.

    “It is indefensible for MultiChoice to cite inflation in Nigeria as justification for the hike while offering consumer-friendly pricing in South Africa. This reflects a disturbing double standard, with Nigerian consumers continuing to suffer under a near-monopolistic market structure that MultiChoice exploits with impunity.”

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    The group further alleged that while MultiChoice claimed the price hike was necessary to deliver “world-class content,” Nigerian subscribers still face persistent challenges that remain unaddressed despite repeated complaints.

    “These include repetitive content, frequent service disruptions, and poor value for money. Rather than resolving these issues, MultiChoice has chosen to penalise its loyal Nigerian customers with higher prices, once again proving that profit, not service or fairness, is its primary motivation,” it stated.

    Continuing, the statement said, “Meanwhile, South African subscribers benefit from reduced pricing, such as the ‘Add Movies’ bolt-on slashed by 38 per cent to R49, alongside additional channels and enhanced streaming features.

    “MultiChoice CEO Byron Du Plessis’s justification that these changes are due to ‘financial pressures faced by households’ further demonstrates the company’s hypocritical and disingenuous treatment of Nigerian consumers, who are themselves grappling with a severe cost-of-living crisis.”

    The group further declared that MultiChoice’s dominance in Nigeria’s pay-TV sector, enabled by a lack of effective competition, had emboldened its monopolistic practices.

    It said the ease with which the company increases prices without fear of losing market share highlights the urgent need for regulatory intervention, adding that Nigerian consumers are effectively held captive in a market where choice is limited and abuse is rampant.

    The NGO also urged the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to take decisive steps to foster genuine competition in the pay-TV sector and dismantle MultiChoice’s stranglehold on the market.

    The statement said, “Save the Consumers demands the immediate reversal of the March 2025 price hike, compensation for subscribers affected by repeated, unjustified price increases and service deficiencies, and full compliance with the FCCPC’s directive.

    “We urge the FCCPC to initiate legal proceedings against MultiChoice for its defiance of regulatory orders and its disregard for consumer welfare.

    “A transparent investigation into its pricing model, service quality, and compliance with Nigerian competition and consumer protection laws is essential.

    “We call on Nigerian consumers to explore alternative platforms and consider boycotting DStv and GOtv until MultiChoice demonstrates genuine respect for their rights.”

    It further declared that MultiChoice’s discriminatory pricing, rewarding South African subscribers with lower costs and better services while exploiting Nigerians, was a “glaring example of unchecked corporate greed.

    “Save the Consumers stands firmly with Nigerian subscribers in rejecting this injustice and calls on all stakeholders to hold MultiChoice accountable.

    “The Nigerian market deserves dignity, not exploitation. No company should be allowed to operate above the law or treat Nigerian consumers as second-class subscribers,” the statement added.

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    A counterpoise argument

    In what may be a counterpoise argument, another non-governmental organisation, Association for the Defense of the Nigerian Economy, ADNE, has dismissed claims that the recent price adjustments by pay television company, MultiChoice, were discriminatory against Nigerians.

    ADNE made its views known in a statement issued in Lagos, yesterday, in response to media reports quoting a civil society organisation, Save the Consumers, as saying that MultiChoice increased prices by 21 per cent in Nigeria, while reducing it by 38 per cent in South Africa.

    Signed by Jacob Agunbiade, its Executive Director, the statement described claims of discrimination as products of laziness and illiteracy in economic matters

    “What Save the Consumer was aimed at misleading the consumer. It was lazy and dishonest. Otherwise, they would have checked on the Internet what it costs to be a DStv customer in both countries. That is the way to make an informed contribution,” the statement said.

    ADNE said its research team discovered that Nigerian DStv subscribers pay lower than their South African counterparts. It noted that the recent MultiChoice price adjustments were a response to high inflation, rising operational costs, and volatility in foreign exchange rates.

    ADNE noted that in South Africa subscribers will be affected by new pricing, effective April 1. With the new rates, DStv Premium subscribers in South Africa will pay ZAR 979, equivalent to $53.82 at the current exchange rate of 18.19 ZAR to 1 USD. The current rate, which will soon be obsolete, ADNE said, is 18.97 ZAR to the dollar.

    The group equally noted that in 2023 and 2024, when South African DStv subscribers paid 879 ZAR, the prices converted to $48.22 and $46.34, respectively. The exchange rates for those two years were 18.23 ZAR and 18.97 ZAR.

    “The new price for the DStv Premium bouquet in Nigeria is N44,500, which is approximately $29.81 based on an exchange rate of N1492.73 to the dollar.”

    Before the new pricing took effect, the cost was N37,000, translating to about $26.55 at an exchange rate of N1393.51/$1. In 2023, the price was N29,500, which amounted to $29.80 at an exchange rate of N990/$1,” noted ADNE.

    The organisation also said it discovered that the differences in the cost to subscribers in both countries extend to DStv Compact Plus and Compact bouquets. While Nigerian Compact Plus customers currently pay N30,000 monthly ($20.10 at N1492.73/$1), ADNE stated, South Africans will, from 1 April, pay 659 ZAR ($36.23 at 18.19ZAR/$1). In 2024, according to ADNE, when the ZAR to dollar rate was 18.197ZAR/$1, the price was 579 ZAR, the equivalent of $30.52. It noted that the same year, Nigerian subscribers paid N25,000 ($17.94 at the rate of N1393.51/$1).

    ADNE added that in 2023, with an exchange rate of N990/$1, Nigerians paid N19,800, the equivalent of $20. The same year, South African Compact customers were paying 579 ZAR, which amounted to $31.76 at 18.23 ZAR/$1.

    The three-year comparison of what DStv Compact subscribers pay in both countries, ADNE noted, follows the pattern of the two other bouquets.

    “Currently, Compact costs N19,000 in Nigeria. This amounts to $12.73 at the exchange rate of N1492.73/$1. From next month, South African Compact customers will pay 479 ZAR ($26.33 at 18.77 ZAR/$1). Last year, they paid 449 ZAR ($23.67 at 18.97 ZAR/$1). At the time, those in Nigeria were paying N15,700 ($11.27 at N1393.51/$1).

    “When in 2023, Nigerian Compact customers paid N12,500 ($12.63 at N990/$1), the corresponding cost in South Africa was 449 ZAR ($24.63 at 18.23ZAR/$1),” ADNE stated.

    While admitting that the economic situation is harsh on Nigerians, it stated that businesses are not faring better, especially with soaring operational costs and foreign exchange instability.

    “What is clear is that local currency value, which affects input costs, has a big say in local economic dynamics and pricing. This is what Save the Consumer pretends not to know. Comments credited to the group have the objective of inciting Nigerians against MultiChoice. No responsible organisation should do that, not at a time companies are exiting the country,” said ADNE.

    Dissenting voices against rising cost of pay TV

    Expectedly, not a few Nigerians believe that the pricing mechanism of DStv is favourable to the local consumers.

    One of such dissenting voices is John Oloruntoba who holds the view and very strongly too that Nigerians are the receiving end of what he described as price apartheid by MultiChoice.

    According to him, the only sensible deduction one can make from what MultiChoice is doing is that “it is now milking Nigerians to subsidise their compatriots in South Africa.”

    “I strongly believe that MultiChoice’s Shylock tendency and predatory antics stem mainly from its monopolistic stranglehold on the cable TV sector in Nigeria. It has wielded this unfair advantage unscrupulously over the years. By craftily securing exclusivity rights over popular sports (soccer) channels with the European brand owners, MultiChoice has succeeded in edging out Nigerian competitors in the industry. It was the strategy it had used to force a promising Nigerian challenger called HiTV into bankruptcy in the 2000s.It is high time Nigerians come together to stop this nonsense by MultiChoice.”

    Oloruntoba is not alone. The trio of Azeez Odusote, who runs a consulting firm in Lagos, Maxwell Adeyemi, a financial advisor and Mrs. Toyesi Adebisi, a stay-at-home who also does catering as a side hustle were all unsparing in their criticisms of what they perceive as the mercantile tendencies of the South African-based satellite TV.

    According to them, the federal government needs to gird its loins and tighten the noose against shylock companies like MultiChoice literally milking Nigerians dry in a manner of speaking.

    As the welter of criticisms rages on, Nigerians wait in bated breath as court hearing begins next May.

  • Court fixes May 8 for judgment in MultiChoice suit against FCCPC

    Court fixes May 8 for judgment in MultiChoice suit against FCCPC

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed judgment for May 8 in a suit by MultiChoice Nigeria Limited against the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

    Justice James Omotosho adjourned after lawyers to the parties adopted their written arguments and made final submissions.

    MultiChoice seeks to prevent the FCCPC from sanctioning it for recently increasing subscription fees for its DStv and Gotv services.

    Yesterday, the court granted FCCPC’s request for an extension of time to regularise the documents it filed.

    The court allowed the plaintiff to withdraw its application for interlocutory injunction which was said to have been overtaken by events.

    Arguing the plaintiff’s case, its lawyer, Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN) noted that the bone of contention was “whether the defendant has the right to control the price at which the plaintiff offers its services to the public.”

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    Onigbanjo acknowledged the regulatory powers of the FCCPC, but argued that the Act establishing the agency did not confer on it the powers to regulate prices or prevent anyone, including the plaintiff, from adjusting its prices.

    The plaintiff’s lawyer added that the issue of whether the defendant could regulate price had earlier been litigated upon by both parties.

    He recalled that the tribunal held that the FCCPC has no powers to regulate the prices of goods and services in the country, except for the President.

    Onigbanjo argued that even the President, who is clothed with the powers to regulate prices, has maintained “that his government does not believe in price control” but, that prices are determined by market forces of demands and supplies.

    He added that if the FCCPC has no powers to control price, where then can it obtain the powers to prevent the plaintiff from increasing price?

    Onigbanjo accused the FCCPC of discrimination, noting that all businesses in the country have been increasing prices in line with existing economic conditions and inflation without the defendant raising an eyebrow, save with the plaintiff.

    He then prayed the court to grant all the reliefs sought in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/379/2025.

    In a counter-argument, FCCPC’s lawyer, Prof, Joseph Abugu (SAN) urged the court to first address the cause of action; which is the issue of an increase in the price of DStv and GOtv.

    Abugu said his client, on February 25, wrote the plaintiff after it announced a price increase effective from March 1, 2025.

    He added that MultiChoice was summoned to appear before the FCCPC on February 27, but wrote that it was not convenient and proposed March 6.

    Abugu said his client then said that in the interim the plaintiff should hold on with the price increment.

    He stated that there was no issue of price regulation or fixing at the time the case was filed in court.

    The lawyer to the defendant said the statute establishing the FCCPC, gave it “powers to check exorbitant pricing” and also powers to “regulate abuse of dominant position in the market” as it relates to prices and passing of cost to the consumer.

    “The plaintiff occupies a dominant position in the television and entertainment”, Agbugu claimed, adding that the case before the court is not of price regulation but the powers of the Commission to investigate prices that are deemed exploitative and abuse of dominant position.”

    “The commission is not to tell you to use price A or B but to determine that the price is exploitative” he said, “they ran away to be investigated over their planned action.

    “Our action is not about price fixing; the issue is about whether the price is exorbitant…the mandate of the Commission is to protect the consumer.”

    On the plaintiff’s claim of discrimination, Abugu argued that the plaintiff’s alleged abuse of its dominant position qualified it to be singled out for exorbitant pricing.

    He then urged the court to strike out the suit or dismiss it because it attacks the major task of the defendant, which is to protect the consumers.

    Abugu added: “The suit should be dismissed and the plaintiff returned to us for investigation.”

  • Tariff hike: Court plans judgment for May 8 in MultiChoice suit against FCCPC

    Tariff hike: Court plans judgment for May 8 in MultiChoice suit against FCCPC

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled judgment for May 8 in a suit by MultiChoice Nigeria Limited against the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).

    Justice James Omotosho chose the date on Thursday after lawyers to parties adopted their written arguments and made final submissions.

    MultiChoice is, by the suit, seeking to among others, prevent the FCCPC from sanctioning it for recently increasing subscription fees for its DStv and Gotv services.

    On Thursday, the court granted FCCPC’s request for extension of time to regularise the documents it filed. The court equally allowed the plaintiff to withdrew its application for interlocutory injunction which was said to have been overtaken by events.

    Arguing the plaintiff’s case, its lawyer, Moyosore Onigbanjo (SAN) noted that the bone of contention was “whether the defendant has the right to control the price at which the plaintiff offers its services to the public.”

    Onigbanjo acknowledged the regulatory powers of the FCCPC, but argued that the Act establishing the agency did not confer on it the powers to regulate price or prevent anyone, including the plaintiff, from adjusting its prices.

    The plaintiff’s lawyer added that the issue of whether the defendant could regulate price had earlier been litigated upon by both parties.

    He recalled that the tribunal held that the FCCPC has no powers to regulate prices of goods and services in the country, except the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

    Onigbanjo argued that even the President, who is clothed with the powers to regulate prices ,has maintained “that his government does not believe in price control” but, that prices are determined by market forces of demands and supplies.

    He added that if the FCCPC has no powers to control price where then can it obtain the powers to prevent the plaintiff from increasing price.

    Onigbanjo accused the FCCPC of discrimination, noting that all businesses in the country have been increasing prices in line with existing economic conditions and inflation without the defendant raising an eyebrow, save with the plaintiff.

    He prayed the court to grant all the reliefs sought in the suit marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/379/2025.

    In a counter-argument, FCCPC’s lawyer, Professor Joseph Abugu, (SAN) urged the court to first address the cause of action; which is the the issue of increase in the price of DStv and GOtv.

    Abugu said his client, on February 25, wrote the plaintiff after it announced price increase effective from March 1, 2025.

    He added that MultiChoice was summoned to appear before the FCCPC on February 27, but wrote that it was not convenient and proposed March 6. 

    Abugu said his client then said that in the interim the plaintiff should hold on with the price increment.

    He stated that there was no issue of price regulation or fixing as at the time the case was filed in court.

    The lawyer to the defendant said the statute establishing the FCCPC, gave it “powers to check exorbitant pricing” and also powers to “regulate abuse of dominant position in the market” as it relates to prices and passing of cost to the consumer.

    “The plaintiff occupies a dominant position in the television and entertainment”, Agbugu claimed, adding that the case before the court is not of price regulation but the powers of the Commission to investigate prices that are deemed exploitative and abuse of dominant position.

    “The commission is not to tell you to use price A or B but to determine that the price is exploitative” he said, “they ran away to be investigated over their planned action.

    “Our action is not about price fixing; the issue is about whether the price is exorbitant…the mandate of the Commission is to protect the consumer.”

    On the plaintiff’s claim of discrimination, Abugu argued that the plaintiff’s alleged abuse of its dominant position qualified it to be singled out for exorbitant pricing.

    He then urged the court to strike out the suit or dismiss it because it attacks the major task of the defendant, which is to protect the consumers.

    Abugu added: “The suit should be dismissed and the plaintiff returned to us for investigation.”

  • FCCPC explains role in consumer rights

    FCCPC explains role in consumer rights

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) yesterday reaffirmed its commitment to defend consumers’ rights and ensure fair business practices.

    Its Executive Vice Chairman/Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO), Mr. Tunji Bello, also  cleared the misunderstanding over the commission’s role.

    Bello noted that there is a misconception about the role of FCCPC in some quarters without proper understanding of the provisions of the law, thereby misleading the public.

    The EVC/CEO spoke in Abuja at a seminar oraganised to mark the 2025 World Consumer Day. This year’s edition has as its theme: “A Just Transition to a Sustainable Lifestyles”.

    He stated that this year’s message could not be more apt considering the existential challenges facing humanity across the world at the moment.

    Bello said: “Permit me to briefly respond to a very concerning trend, which is what I consider the misconception of the role of FCCPC in some quarters. I observe this tendency among some of our commentators in the media space who misunderstand the provisions of the law and inadvertently mislead the public.

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    “To be sure, Sections 17 and 18 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 expressly vest the Commission with the statutory authority to regulate competition and consumer protection across all sectors in our national life which is consistent global best practices.

    “This notion was, in fact, recently affirmed by the court of competent jurisdiction. In one word, the law charges the FCCPC to champion the rights of consumers of goods and services in Nigeria. It is, therefore, very disturbing to hear or read parochial arguments of those who, out of ignorance of the law, seek to erect walls of sophistry against FCCPC in its discharge of this clear mandate. The Commission has never claimed or pretended to be a price control board.”

    The FCCPC boss noted: “The FCCPC gets involve when the rights of consumers are breached or when the market is being manipulated in a manner that impedes fair competition.

    “For instance, when you book a flight you are paying for a service. Assuming the affected airline fails to deliver the service paid for and you file a complaint with us, we are mandated by the law to champion your cause.

    “Our inquiry under the circumstances has nothing to do with technical issues in the aviation section, but purely consumer issues.

    “When the case of a substandard product is reported, there is of course consumer issue involved. Our intervention in the circumstances is not inquiring into the pharmaceutical composition of the drug at issue, but the right of the patient who gave out his or her hard-earned money in expectation of a remedy. Similarly when consumers are being exploited by providers of services, it is our responsibility to intervene.

    “I thought I should offer these clarifications for the education of members of the public, especially some commentators who write in ignorance.

    “For the avoidance of doubt, let it be recognised that, in all of its actions, the Commission is guided by just one single commitment, and that is the pursuit of public interest.

    “However, we recognise that we cannot further this advocacy alone. Realising you and I are all consumers one way or the other, my clarion call today therefore is to all true patriots to join this crusade to protect the consumers and make the market fair and safe in Nigeria.”

    He noted that many countries are still contending with inflationary trend which has been traced to the economic disruption occasioned by COVID-19 of 2020.

    Bello said: “Unfortunately, just before the COVID pains could heal came the Russian-Ukrainian war which brought fresh disruption to the global food supply chain, thus worsening the plight of consumers of goods and services. It is therefore a matter of necessity that we rethink our choices and fashion new coping strategy to adapt to new realities.”

    “As we celebrate the 2025 World Consumer Day, for us at the FCCPC, it is an opportunity to rededicate ourselves to championing the interests of the consumers.

    “By the FCCP Act of 2018, our mandate is clear – promotion and protection of the interests and welfare of consumers by ensuring fair competition and ethical business practices.

    “In the context of a just transition, this means ensuring affordability and accessibility; that sustainable choices should not be expensive or difficult to access, they should be within the reach of all consumers.

    “Empowering consumers by providing accurate information and raising awareness about the impact of their choices, so that they can make informed decisions and holding businesses accountable by ensuring that industries comply with environmental and ethical standards while preventing deceptive marketing of so-called green products.”

    In his keynote address titled: “A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles – The Baobab’s Promise”, Prof Joe Abugu (SAN) canvassed an approach which recognises that “sustainable lifestyles must be culturally appropriate rather than imposed through standardized global models”.

    The senior advocate anchored his submission on the metaphor of the Baobab tree.

    On the panel of discussants were: President, National Industrial Court of Nigeria, Justice Benedict Bakwaph Kanyip; Prof Chiso Ndukwe-Okafor and Mr. Temilade Oluwalana, a lawyer.

    The other highlight of the event was the presentation of the star prize for the 8th edition of the National Young Consumer Contest (NYCC) to Miss Madiebo Ifunaya of the Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Port Harcourt.

    The second position went to Miss Michaela Chikamso of  St. Bridget Girls Grammar School, Asaba, while the third position went to Miss Oluwajobi Ewaogooluwa of St Theresa’s Catholic School, Bwuari, Abuja.

    More than 600 entries were received by FCCPC for this year’s essay competition with the theme, “Is AI Hurting or Helping Consumers?”

  • FCCPC clarifies commission’s role, addresses public misconceptions

    FCCPC clarifies commission’s role, addresses public misconceptions

    The Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), Tunji Bello, has addressed misconceptions about the commission’s role in society.

    Speaking at a seminar in Abuja to mark the 2025 World Consumer Day, themed “A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles,” Bello noted that some commentators in the media have misinterpreted the law, thereby misleading the public about the FCCPC’s mandate.

    He emphasised that this year’s theme is particularly relevant given the existential challenges facing humanity globally.

    According to him, “Permit me to briefly respond to a very concerning trend. Which is what I consider the misconception of the role of FCCPC in some quarters. I observe this tendency among some of our commentators in the media space who misunderstand the provisions of the law and inadvertently mislead the public.

    “To be sure, Sections 17 and 18 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 expressly vest the Commission with the statutory authority to regulate competition and consumer protection across all sectors in our national life which is consistent global best practices. 

    “This notion was, in fact, recently affirmed by the court of competent jurisdiction. In one word, the law charges the FCCPC to champion the rights of consumers of goods and services in Nigeria. It is, therefore, very disturbing to hear or read parochial arguments of those who, out of ignorance of the law, seek to erect walls of sophistry against FCCPC in its discharge of this clear mandate. The Commission has never claimed or pretended to be a price control board”.

    He noted that the FCCPC gets involved when the rights of consumers are breached or when the market is being manipulated in a manner that impedes fair competition. 

    He said: “For instance, when you book a flight you are paying for a service. Assuming the affected airline fails to deliver the service paid for and you file a complaint with us, we are mandated by the law to champion your cause. Our inquiry under the circumstances has nothing to do with technical issues in the aviation section, but purely consumer issues.”

    He also added that when the case of a substandard product is reported, there is of course consumer issue involved. 

    He added: “Our intervention in the circumstances is not inquiring into the pharmaceutical composition of the drug at issue, but the right of the patient who gave out his or her hard-earned money in expectation of a remedy. Similarly when consumers are being exploited by providers of services, it is our responsibility to intervene.

    “I thought I should offer these clarifications for the education of members of the public, especially some commentators who write in ignorance. For the avoidance of doubt, let it be recognised that, in all of its actions, the Commission is guided by just one single commitment, and that is the pursuit of public interest. 

    “However, we recognize we cannot further this advocacy alone. Realising you and I are all consumers one way or the other, my clarion call today therefore is to all true patriots to join this crusade to protect the consumers and make the market fair and safe in Nigeria.

    “Presently, most countries are contending with inflationary trend which has been traced to the economic disruption occasioned by COVID 19 of 2020.

    Unfortunately, just before the COVID pains could heal came the Russian-Ukrainian war which brought fresh disruption to the global food supply chain, thus worsening the plight of consumers of goods and services. 

    “It is therefore a matter of necessity that we rethink our choices and fashion new coping strategy to adapt to new realities. 

    Read Also: FCCPC to MultiChoice: maintain current rates for DStv, GOtv

    “Looking ahead, the world is undoubtedly moving towards a greener, more sustainable way of living. The overarching challenge is ensuring that no one is left behind. Sustainability should not be a privilege for a few, but a right for all. A just transition means making sustainable products and services affordable, accessible, and fair to consumers while ensuring that businesses and industries uphold responsible practices.

    “As we celebrate the 2025 World Consumer Day, for us at the FCCPC, it is an opportunity to rededicate ourselves to championing the interests of the Nigerian Consumers. By the FCCP Act of 2018, our mandate is clear. Which is the promotion and protection of the interests and welfare of consumers by ensuring fair competition and ethical business practices. In the context of a just transition. 

    “This means ensuring affordability and accessibility. That sustainable choices should not be expensive or difficult to access, they should be within the reach of all consumers. Empowering consumers by providing accurate information and raising awareness about the impact of their choices, so that they can make informed decisions. 

    “Holding businesses accountable by ensuring that industries comply with environmental and ethical standards while preventing deceptive marketing of so-called green products.

    “This includes innovation and fair competition by encouraging businesses to develop sustainable products and services while ensuring a competitive market that benefits consumers. 

    “This also includes protecting vulnerable communities by ensuring that low-income groups are not disproportionately burdened by the costs of the transition to sustainability.”

  • FCCPC to MultiChoice: maintain current rates for DStv, GOtv

    FCCPC to MultiChoice: maintain current rates for DStv, GOtv

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has directed multichoice Nigeria to maintain its current pricing structure for DStv and GOtv pending the conclusion of an examination of its proposed price hike.

    The commission has gone ahead to institute legal proceedings  against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, for violating regulatory directives, obstructing an ongoing inquiry and engaging in conduct deemed violations of the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

    Even with the directive from FCCPC  multichoice proceeded with its price increase on March 1, 2025, in clear defiance of the Commission’s directive.

    Following the disregard for regulatory oversight, the FCCPC has filed charges against MultiChoice Nigeria and John Ugbe at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, on three counts of offences under the FCCPA 2018.

    Read Also: Give it to the EFCC

    This is specifically for willfully obstructing the Commission’s inquiry by implementing a price hike contrary to directives (Section 33(4)), impeding the ongoing investigation by ignoring instructions to suspend the hike (Section 110), and attempting to mislead the Commission by proceeding with the increase without objection (Section 159(2), punishable under Section 159(4)(a) and (b)).

    The Director, Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu in a statement disclosed that the Commission views MultiChoice’s actions as a deliberate and calculated attempt to undermine regulatory authority, disrupt market fairness, and deny Nigerian consumers the protection afforded under the law.

    He said, “This is by disregarding the FCCPC’s directive and implementing the price hike before appearing before the Commission’s investigative hearing on March 6, 2025, MultiChoice has not only flouted regulatory processes but also demonstrated a pattern of conduct that undermines consumer rights and fair competition.

    “In addition to these legal actions, the FCCPC is reviewing further enforcement measures, including sanctions, penalties, and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance and accountability”.

    He assured that the FCCPC is committed to protecting Nigerian consumers from exploitative business practices and ensuring that dominant players in any sector adhere to fair market principles and legal compliance.

  • FCCPC directs multichoice to maintain current pricing

    FCCPC directs multichoice to maintain current pricing

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has directed MultiChoice Nigeria to maintain its current pricing for DStv and GOtv pending the conclusion of an inquiry into its proposed price hike. 

    Despite this directive, MultiChoice proceeded with its price increase on March 1, 2025, prompting the FCCPC to take legal action against the company and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe.

    The commission has accused them of violating regulatory directives, obstructing an ongoing investigation, and breaching the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018. 

    The FCCPC has filed charges at the Federal High Court, Lagos Judicial Division, on three counts: willfully obstructing the Commission’s inquiry by enforcing the price hike against directives (Section 33(4)), impeding an ongoing investigation (Section 110), and misleading the Commission by implementing the increase without objection (Section 159(2)), punishable under Section 159(4)(a) and (b). 

    In a statement, the FCCPC Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, condemned MultiChoice’s actions as a deliberate attempt to undermine regulatory authority, disrupt market fairness, and deny Nigerian consumers their legal protections.

    Read Also: FCCPC files charges against MultiChoice over subscription price hike

    He said, “This is by disregarding the FCCPC’s directive and implementing the price hike before appearing before the Commission’s investigative hearing on March 6, 2025. MultiChoice has not only flouted regulatory processes but also demonstrated a pattern of conduct that undermines consumer rights and fair competition.

    “In addition to these legal actions, the FCCPC is reviewing further enforcement measures, including sanctions, penalties, and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance and accountability.”

    He assured that the FCCPC is committed to protecting Nigerian consumers from exploitative business practices and ensuring that dominant players in any sector adhere to fair market principles and legal compliance.

  • Oil marketers urge NMDPRA, FCCPC to end petrol price drop

    Oil marketers urge NMDPRA, FCCPC to end petrol price drop

    Oil marketers under the auspices of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) have urged the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) to protect industry players against the “sudden reduction” of petrol prices.

    “The NMDPRA (Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority), and the consumer protection agency should swing into action and work collaboratively with all the stakeholders so that we can have a stable market, a stable price,” PETROAN President, Billy Gillis-Harry, said on a national television.

    On February 26, 2025, the $20 billion refinery owned by Africa’s richest man and industrialist Aliko Dangote, slashed the ex-depot price of petrol from N890 to N825 per litre.

    Under the new arrangement, customers purchase the premium commodity at N860 per litre at selected outlets in Lagos, N870 in the South-West, N880 in the North, and N890 in the South-South and South-East. Dangote has also reduced the price of diesel in recent times.

    Read Also: Progressives warn NNPCL against reversing Tinubu’s economic goals on local refineries

    Almost immediately, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited reduced its retail price from N945 to N860 in Lagos, with a similar price reduction reflected at NNPCL outlets in other states of the Federation.

    Some analysts and industry experts have hailed the price war, saying it will “erode abnormal profit” enjoyed by capitalists but petrol marketers who still import the premium commodity have lamented the loss they incurred as a result of the sudden price drop.

    The PETROAN boss said:  “My members are buying products from every possible source, and the size of the losses anticipated by unstable prices can only be imagined; the size of the loss and the possibility of most of us getting out of business glared at us in the face.

    “As much as we are making efforts to ensure that Nigerians have product availability from our end, as the last mile in the industry, we also want to stay afloat in being liquid.

    “The challenge we have is that we buy products today at a certain price, and before the close of business, the prices have reduced.

    “Every business can only survive making a minimal profit that is commensurate with paying the cost of doing business.

    “When we invest to buy the product say at about ₦890 and land it in our station at maybe an additional ₦10, ₦15 more, you are not going to expect us to sell less than that. And if that same product suddenly reduces to ₦840 or ₦860 or ₦870, it becomes worrisome how we are going to recover the cost of our money.”

    Gillis-Harry demanded a liberalised trade with a mix of local production and importation, saying “nobody should be left out or left behind” in the value chain.

    He said marketers “have capacity to do our imports and we have capacity to buy products locally refined. However, if consistently, we are seeing that prices shift down, and there are no clear consultations on how this should be done, to the benefit of Nigerians,” it threatens business.

    “There should be a mechanism by which this price fluctuation should be analysed and ensure that it doesn’t impact negatively on the industry,” he said.