The tribunal also ordered Multichoice Nigeria to provide one-month free subscriptions on DStv and GOtv for Nigerians.
On April 24, Multichoice Nigeria announced a 25% increase in the subscription costs for its DStv and GOtv packages. This marked the second time in six months that Multichoice has raised subscription prices, with the previous increase being at least 19%.
However, on April 29, the tribunal ordered Multichoice to halt the tariff and price increases for its products and services, which were scheduled to take effect on May 1.
In its ruling on Friday, a three-man panel chaired by Justice Thomas Okosu held that Section 39(2) of the FCCPC Act states that the tribunal shall have jurisdiction throughout the federation and on all commercial activities aimed at making a profit.
“The jurisdiction of this tribunal extends to all business activities within Nigeria,” Okosu ruled.
The Tribunal noted that asides from Multichoice dismissal of its interim orders, its action of hiking DSTV and GOTV prices is condemnable and must not be condoned by the Tribunal.
