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  • Alleged violations: FCCPC files charges against MultiChoice

    Alleged violations: FCCPC files charges against MultiChoice

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has charged MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, with alleged violation of regulatory directives.

    It accused them of obstructing an ongoing inquiry and engaging in conduct deemed violations of the provisions of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

    FCCPC on February 27 directed MultiChoice Nigeria to maintain its current pricing structure for DStv and GOtv pending the conclusion of an examination of its proposed price hike.

    Despite this directive, the company proceeded with its price increase on March 1 in defiance of the Commission’s directive.

    FCCPC said following this blatant disregard for regulatory oversight, it filed charges against MultiChoice Nigeria and Ugbe at the Federal High Court in Lagos on three counts of offences under the FCCPA 2018.

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    The charge is 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 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.

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

    FCCPC said it was reviewing further enforcement measures, including sanctions, penalties, and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance and accountability.

    “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,” Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, said in a statement.

    Count one of the charge reads: “That you, Multichoice Nigeria Limited and John Ugbe, on March 1, 2025 at the MultiChoice Nigeria head office located at Plot 1381 Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did without sufficient cause failed and or refused to comply with a directive of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, to refrain from implementing Multichoice proposed price hike pending the conclusion of the Commission’s ongoing investigations and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 33 (3) of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018.”

    Count two reads: “That you, Multichoice Nigeria Limited and John Ugbe, on March 1, 2025, at the MultiChoice Nigeria head office located at Plot 1381 Tiamiyu Savage Street, Victoria Island, Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court did impede the Commission’s ongoing investigation into Multichoice’s proposed price hike, which was implemented in defiance of the Commission’s directive to Multichoice, to refrain from implementing the proposed price hike, pending the conclusion of the Commission’s ongoing investigation, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 110 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018.”

  • FCCPC files charges against MultiChoice over subscription price hike

    FCCPC files charges against MultiChoice over subscription price hike

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has filed charges against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, for defying regulatory directives to suspend a planned subscription price hike.

    The FCCPC’s Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday.

    On February 27, the FCCPC ordered MultiChoice to suspend its proposed price increase for DStv and GOtv services pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation. However, the company proceeded with the price adjustments on March 1, disregarding the directive.

    The regulator stated that the charges, filed at the Federal High Court in Lagos, are based on three counts: obstructing the Commission’s inquiry, failing to comply with regulatory directives, and attempting to mislead the regulatory body

    The statement read in part: “Following the blatant 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.

    “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 FCCPC described MultiChoice’s actions as a deliberate attempt to undermine regulatory authority, disrupt market fairness, and deny Nigerian consumers the protection guaranteed under the law.

    “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,” the statement added.

    Read Also: Reps ask MultiChoice to halt planned increase in DStv, GOtv subscriptions

    Beyond legal action, the FCCPC is also considering additional enforcement measures, including sanctions and regulatory interventions, to ensure compliance and accountability.

    Earlier, MultiChoice had informed customers of the impending price review, effective March 1, 2025, citing rising costs of delivering premium content.

    In a notice titled “Price Adjustments for DStv and GOtv Packages,” the company stated:

    “Dear Customer, please note that effective March 1, 2025, there will be a price adjustment on all DStv packages. This is to enable us to continue offering our customers world-class homegrown and international content, delivered through the best technology.”

    While the Compact Plus and Premium packages will remain at N30,000 and N44,500, respectively, the DStv Compact package is among the subscriptions affected by the price increase.

  • FCCPC directs MultiChoice to maintain current pricespending investigative hearing

    FCCPC directs MultiChoice to maintain current pricespending investigative hearing

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has directed MultiChoice Nigeria to maintain its current subscription prices until the ongoing investigation into its proposed price hike is concluded.

     This directive follows MultiChoice Nigeria’s request for an extension regarding its scheduled appearance before the Commission.

    While the FCCPC has granted the request, the company is now required to attend the rescheduled investigative hearing on March 6, 2025, along with all relevant officers and a comprehensive response.

    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. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

    Multichoice, had on Monday disclosed in a statement to its customers that it was  set to increase the prices of its DStv and GOtv packages effective from March 1, 2025.

    The statement titled, “Price adjustments for DStv and GOtv packages,” read, “Dear Customer, please note that effective 1 March 2025, there will be a price adjustment on all DStv packages.

    Read Also: FCCPC invites MultiChoice CEO over subscription tariff hike

    “This is to enable us to continue to offer our customers world-class homegrown and international content, delivered through the best technology.”

     This is coming almost one year after its last price review.

    According to the company, its latest price review will hike the DStv Compact bouquet from N15,700 to N19,000, the Compact Plus to N30,000, and the Premium subscription to N44,500.

    Similarly, GOtv customers, who currently pay N3,600, will now pay N3,900, while the tariff on GOtv Plus will rise from N4,850 to N5,800.

    The GoTV max package will now cost N8,500 while the Supa will cost N11,400 and the Supa Plus, N16,800.

  • FCCPC begins action on high cost of diabetes, BP medications

    FCCPC begins action on high cost of diabetes, BP medications

    The  Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has commenced a probe of the high cost of   Blood Pressure  (BP) and Diabetic drugs in the country.

    The Executive Vice Chairman(EVC)  of the commission  Tunji Bello said the inquiry was to ensure better medication and healthcare delivery.

    He spoke at a stakeholders engagement in Abuja yesterday.

    The EVC, represented by Boladale Adeyinka,  director of  Surveillance and Investigations, that the high costs of medicines not only make it increasingly difficult for consumers to afford treatment but place a strain on the nation’s health care system.

    He said:  “We have received complaints regarding the variation and high costs of drugs in Nigerian markets.  This inquiry is aimed at identifying factors contributing to disparities in healthcare accessibility and affordability, particularly regarding drug pricing.

    “We believe this is crucial to ensuring Nigerians have access to quality and affordable healthcare services. The commission will  continue to engage with necessary stakeholders towards protecting consumers from fake and substandard products and services in the country.” 

      National Chairman,  Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, Eze Ambrosia and the President of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Ibrahim Tanko listed poor infrastructure, drug importation and lack of foreign exchange as some of the factors responsible for high cost and variation in drug prices in the country. 

    Osaretin Asowata of the Society for Family  (SFN) called for a better policy that would further enhance effective healthcare delivery.

    Read Also: FCCPC probes high cost, price disparities of BP, diabetes medications

    The stakeholders’ engagement which is also being attended by representatives of the National Agency For Drugs  Administration Control(NAFDAC),  federal and state Ministries of Health, the Pharmacy Council of  Nigeria and the World Health Organisation (WHO)  is expected to come up with recommendations that would bring succour to consumers in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sector.

    Other forms of unpaid liabilities are pension arrears and debt obligations like contractor payments  and the controversial Paris Club bailout.

     Notably, 31 states were said to owe the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) N339.9 billion in salary bailout loans taken between 2015 and 2023.

    The Bola Tinubu administration, which ended fuel subsidies and unified exchange rates last year, has significantly increased state government allocations, aiming to enable them to manage their liabilities independently.

  • FCCPC probes high cost, price disparities of BP, diabetes medications

    FCCPC probes high cost, price disparities of BP, diabetes medications

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has launched an investigation into the rising cost and price variations of blood pressure (BP) and diabetes medications across Nigerian markets, aiming to ensure consumer protection and prevent exploitation.

    FCCPC’s executive vice chairman, Tunji Bello, stated that the inquiry seeks to enhance healthcare delivery and medication accessibility, as the cost of essential drugs has surged significantly over the past year.

    Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement in Abuja, Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, FCCPC’s director of surveillance and investigations, who represented Bello, stressed that the rising cost of medications is making treatment unaffordable for many Nigerians and placing an additional strain on the healthcare system.

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa signs MoU for N15bn investment in agriculture

    “The Commission has received multiple consumer complaints regarding price disparities and high drug costs in Nigerian markets. This inquiry aims to identify the factors affecting drug affordability and accessibility to ensure Nigerians get quality and affordable healthcare,” Bello stated.

    Key stakeholders, including the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) and the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), attributed the high cost of medications to poor infrastructure, heavy reliance on drug imports, and forex scarcity.

    Osaretin Asowata from the Society for Family Health (SFH) called for stronger policies to improve healthcare delivery, while representatives from NAFDAC, the Federal and State Ministries of Health, the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria, and the WHO joined discussions on potential solutions.

    The engagement is expected to produce recommendations aimed at reducing drug costs and improving pharmaceutical sector regulations for Nigerian consumers.

  • FCCPC summons MultiChoice over planned subscription price hike

    FCCPC summons MultiChoice over planned subscription price hike

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has summoned MultiChoice Nigeria to explain its planned subscription price increase, set to take effect on March 1, 2025.

    Exercising its mandate under Sections 32 and 33 of the FCCPA, the FCCPC has directed MultiChoice Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer to appear for an investigative hearing at its headquarters on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

    In a statement signed by Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs, the FCCPC raised concerns over recurrent unilateral price hikes, potential market dominance abuse, and anti-competitive practices in the pay-TV industry.

    Read Also: FG unveils plan to tackle growing unsafe water crisis

    “The FCCPC is deeply concerned that Nigerian consumers continue to face frequent price increases, amid accusations that MultiChoice applies different pricing strategies in other markets, heightening questions about fairness and market abuse,” the statement read.

    The commission warned that if MultiChoice fails to provide a satisfactory explanation or is found guilty of violating fair market principles, it may impose regulatory penalties, sanctions, or other corrective measures to protect consumers.

    The FCCPC also said that it is collaborating with the sector regulator and other relevant agencies to ensure fair competition and consumer protection in Nigeria’s broadcasting and digital subscription industry.

  • Court okays FCCPC’s power in telecom regulation

    Court okays FCCPC’s power in telecom regulation

    • Agency to protect consumers’ interest in new tariffs regime

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has regulatory power over the telecom sector, the court has affirmed.

    The ruling properly situates the role of the FCCPC, its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Tunji Bello, said at the weekend.

    In the judgment delivered on Friday, Justice F.N. Ogazi reinforced the FCCPC’s mandate as the primary authority responsible for preventing anti-competitive practices and protecting consumers in Nigeria in line with Sections 17 and 18 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018.

    The case was instituted by Emeka Nnubia, a lawyer and shareholder of MTN, who sought to halt the FCCPC’s investigation into MTN Nigeria.

    Representing himself, Nnubia argued that the FCCPC’s inquiry could violate data protection laws and that regulatory authority over MTN resided with the NCC rather than the FCCPC.

    The ruling clarifies that Section 90 of the Nigerian Communications Act (NCA) 2003, which grants the NCC jurisdiction over competition matters within the telecom industry, must be read alongside Section 104 of the FCCPA 2018, which establishes FCCPC as the primary regulatory authority on competition and consumer protection across all sectors.

    The court held that the FCCPA, being the later legislation, supersedes conflicting provisions of the NCA 2003 to the extent that they seek to exclude the FCCPC’s oversight in the telecommunications industry.

    The court’s decision affirms that the NCC does not have exclusive competition regulation authority in telecommunications.

    Instead, both regulators now share concurrent jurisdiction, ensuring a coordinated approach to fair competition and consumer welfare in the telecom industry.

    Section 105 of the FCCPA 2018 provides for collaboration between the FCCPC and sector regulators, including the NCC.

    This approach aligns with global best practices, where consumer protection regulators collaborate with industry-specific regulators.

    The ruling reaffirms that FCCPC’s jurisdiction remains paramount in competition and consumer protection matters, while also recognising the role of the NCC in regulating telecommunications operations.

    Furthermore, the court held that entering into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with sector regulators is not a condition precedent for FCCPC’s enforcement of its statutory functions.

    Instead, sector regulators must engage with FCCPC to define working arrangements.

    The ruling confirms that FCCPC acted within its statutory powers in issuing a summons to MTN Nigeria as part of its ongoing inquiry into potential anti-competitive practices.

    The Summons and Request to Produce was found to be lawful and within the scope of FCCPC’s investigative powers.

    In addition, the court held that the FCCPC’s request for information from MTN did not violate any data protection laws, including the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2023 and the NCA 2003. No personal data was requested, and MTN’s obligation to disclose information in the public interest is a legitimate basis for compliance with FCCPC’s inquiry.

    The court commended the excellence of legal arguments presented in the matter and rejected any attempt to restrain a regulatory authority from exercising its statutory functions.

    The ruling reaffirmed that preventing a regulator from discharging its duties violates the doctrine of separation of powers enshrined in the Constitution.

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    On the issue of cost, the court acknowledged that the case raised important questions regarding the evolving landscape of competition and consumer protection law in Nigeria. While the court recognised that costs ordinarily follow events, it declined to award costs due to the public interest significance of the case.

    The plaintiff, Mr. Nnubia, appeared in person. Mr. Abimbola Ojenike with Ms. Oluwadamilola Omotosho appeared for FCCPC, while Mr. Chinonso Ekuma appeared for the third defendant (MTN Nigeria).

    There was no legal representation for the first defendant – the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment.

    FCCPC to approve mergers, acquisitions

    Also at the weekend, the FCCPC said it is empowered to approve company mergers and acquisitions,.

    “Even on mergers and acquisitions now, if there is going to be one, the FCCPC has to approve it,” Bello said on a Channels television programme at the weekend.

    On the planned increase in telecom service prices, Bello said the FCCPC and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) have worked together to limit price hikes to between 10 and 50 per cent.

    “If customers have issues, they should report to us. We will first tell the NCC to handle it. If nothing changes, we will step in and make sure the problem is fixed,” he said.

    The FCCPC boss said the agency stopped power companies from charging for new meters.

    “People complained, and we called a meeting with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

    “NERC then told all electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) and meter suppliers that no Nigerian should pay for a new meter,” he explained.

    He added that if people are not getting the electricity they pay for, they should report to the FCCPC and will ensure the issue is resolved.

  • How to report loan apps harassment, by FCCPC

    How to report loan apps harassment, by FCCPC

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has educated Nigerians on how to report loan apps harassment. 

    The FCCPC in a statement at the weekend provided a guide to help Nigerians report harassment by loan app. 

    Online loan apps have gained popularity among Nigerians in need of quick financial relief.

    However, some lenders have resorted to aggressive tactics, such as sending shameful messages, sometimes including personal photos to borrowers’ contacts when repayments are delayed.

    These actions have caused significant distress, with victims losing jobs and enduring public humiliation.

    In response to rising concerns, the FCCPC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting consumer rights. The Commission urged Nigerians to report any instances of harassment by loan apps.

    Below is how to report:

    Email: Send complaints to contact@fccpc.gov.ng.

    Social Media: Message FCCPC directly on X.

    Website: Visit fccpc.gov.ng, navigate to the “File a Complaint” section, and fill in your details. You’ll need to provide information such as the loan app’s name, contact details, loan amount, and a description of the issue.

  • FCCPC’s ongoing rejuvenation

    FCCPC’s ongoing rejuvenation

    Established to provide speedy redress to consumers of products and services whose rights have been breached as well as protect and promote the rights of consumers and hold producers and service providers accountable among its core functions, not much had been heard in the public domain about the Federal Consumer Competition Protection Council (FCCPC) until the appointment by President Bola Tinubu of Mr Tunji Bello as the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the agency on July 25, 2024. Ever since he assumed office, Mr Bello has swung into action, hit the ground running and commenced the repositioning of the organization to fulfil its mandate with a greater sense of urgency and responsibility. Now we regularly hear the voice of the FCCPC as an agency that actively puts providers of goods and services on their toes as it strives to protect the interests and rights of consumers.

    For instance, following the recent 50 per cent increase in tariff rates by telecommunications companies, the FCCPC moved quickly to remind affected service providers of the need to ensure that the quality of their services reflected their enhanced revenues as a result of the increase. In a statement by the agency, it noted that “The NCC’s approval of a 50% adjustment, which is lower than the over 100% increase initially proposed by operators, demonstrates a thoughtful effort to balance industry sustainability with consumer protection”.

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    Stressing that the recent Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between the FCCPC and the National Communication Commission (NCC) emphasizes a joint commitment to ensuring robust consumer protection, fair competition and the eradication of exploitative practices in the communication sector, the FCCPC warned that “It is non-negotiable that telecom operators must prioritize visible and measurable improvements in network reliability, speed, accessibility and customer service as part of any tariff adjustment”. It will be recalled that as part of its resurgent vigilance, the FCCPC that in December last year, the FCCPC launched enquiries into widespread consumer complaints against leading players in the banking, telecommunications and aviation sectors. The companies engaged in the process were Guaranty Trust Bank (GTB), MTN Nigeria and Air Peace Limited. The agency stated that the enquiries would provide these companies”a platform to address consumer concerns, clarify business practices and enforce compliance with regulatory stipulations.”

  • FCCPC, NCC sign MoU to eliminate regulatory gaps in telecoms industry

    FCCPC, NCC sign MoU to eliminate regulatory gaps in telecoms industry

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to eliminate regulatory gaps in the telecoms industry.

    At the signing of the MoU in Abuja, the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, FCCPC, Mr. Tunji Bello, stated that the journey to this milestone has been both challenging and rewarding, as the partnership will benefit both operators and consumers.

    The Vice Chairman noted that the principle behind overlapping regulations is simply serving as a mechanism to prevent issues from slipping through the cracks.

     He added that by design, regulations are often interwoven and overlapping.

    His words: “This explains the interwoven relationship between the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

    “It ensures that if one agency, due to certain limitations fails to identify or address a consumer issue or regulatory violation, the other agency, potentially with a different perspective, will be able to step in effectively.

    “This highlights the importance of Section 105 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, which explicitly provides for cooperation and collaboration between the FCCPC and sector regulators.

    “This synergy is critical to ensuring comprehensive oversight and consumer protection without regulatory conflicts or duplications”.

    He applauded the NCC’s  Executive Vice Chairman , Dr. Aminu Maida, for the ‘success of the MoU’, stating that it is an achievement of a milestone.

    Bello said: “We are also making life easier for the generality of consumers in dealing with two government agencies on the same issue at the same time.

    “This will foster harmonious collaboration between our organisations, streamline operations for telecoms operators through a one-stop-shop approach in many instances, and ensure robust consumer protection, fair competition, and the eradication of exploitative practices”.

    The FCCPC boss said it is entirely consistent with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of fostering economic growth through regulatory collaboration, enhanced market efficiency, and prioritising consumer welfare.

    Read Also: NCC: Multiple taxation hurting telecoms industry

    He said given the importance of this legal requirement, today’s event should inspire other sector regulators to establish similar collaborative frameworks with the FCCPC, as mandated by Section 105 of the FCCPA.

    This, he stated, will ensure that consumers across all sectors enjoy the benefits of coordinated and comprehensive regulatory oversight.

    The Executive Vice Chairman, NCC, Dr. Maida, said this is the outcome of healthy engagements and events that have strengthened the resolve of both institutions to protect the Nigerian consumer, especially in the communications industry.

    He noted that the two regulatory institutions are committed to advancing the welfare of the Nigerian people through fair competition and robust consumer protection frameworks, adding that in an era of rapid technological advancements, the significance of collaboration between regulatory bodies cannot be overstated.

    “The telecoms sector, in particular, has become the cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic and social development. This makes it imperative that we ensure a level playing field for all stakeholders while protecting consumers who depend on reliable and affordable communications services,” Maida said.

    He stated that this MoU is a testament to the shared vision of fostering a transparent, competitive, and consumer-focused telecommunications industry, which is by aligning the efforts of NCC and FCCPC to avoid regulatory uncertainty and create clarity for the benefit of all stakeholders in the communications sector.

    Maida added that the MoU is also in furtherance of both commissions’ joint responsibility to ensure the realization of the Federal Government’s Ease of Doing Business objectives.