The Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal has fined Multichoice Nigeria N150 million for challenging the jurisdiction of the court and disobeying its interim orders.
The tribunal also ordered Multichoice to provide a one-month free subscription to Nigerians on DStv and GOtv.
The tribunal’s verdict, delivered by a three-member panel led by Thomas Okosu, stated that Multichoice’s action was “condemnable and must not be condoned.” Okosu said, “The jurisdiction of this tribunal extends to all business activities within Nigeria… I have come to the conclusion that this tribunal has the jurisdiction to preside over consumer rights as in the instant case.”
The tribunal dismissed Multichoice’s preliminary objection, stating that the company’s price hike was not the issue, but rather the illegality of the 8-day notice to customers. The tribunal also ordered Multichoice to pay a penalty of N150 million for failing to comply with its interim orders.
Barrister Festus Onifade, who sued Multichoice, argued that the company did not provide adequate notice for the price increase, stating, “It is our submission that the 8-day notice issued by Multichoice Nigeria is insufficient in law. A monthly subscriber should be given at least a month.”
