MultiChoice Nigeria has come under intense criticism following its recent 21% price increase on DStv and GOtv subscriptions, with the Save the Consumers group condemning the move as discriminatory, insensitive, and exploitative.
The Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) accused MultiChoice of economic discrimination, highlighting the company’s 38% price slash for South African subscribers while imposing higher costs on Nigerian customers.
Consumer Rights Group Demands Price Reversal
Dr. Aliyu Ilias, Executive Director of Save the Consumers, released a statement on March 24, 2025, in Abuja, calling for an immediate reversal of the new pricing and compensation for affected subscribers.
“This double standard—lowering prices at home while increasing them in Nigeria—is indefensible. It reflects a disturbing trend of treating Nigerian consumers as second-class subscribers,” Ilias stated.
The NGO argued that Nigerian users deserve better service, competitive pricing, and fair business practices, rather than repeated price hikes.
The price hike comes less than a year after MultiChoice’s last increase in May 2024, leaving many Nigerian customers frustrated.
Under the new structure, DStv Premium now costs N44,500 per month, up from N37,000, while Compact Plus subscribers pay N30,000. GOtv users also saw price jumps, with the basic package increasing from N3,600 to N3,900, while GOtv Plus rose from N4,850 to N5,800.
By contrast, MultiChoice South Africa not only reduced prices but also added more channels and features to enhance customer experience.
MultiChoice justified the hike, citing inflation, rising operational costs, and the need to provide “world-class content”. However, Nigerian subscribers continue to face:
- Frequent service disruptions
- Poor customer support
- Unresolved complaints
“MultiChoice claims the price hike is necessary to deliver world-class content, yet Nigerian subscribers still face persistent challenges that remain unaddressed. This is unacceptable,” Ilias said.
FCCPC Takes Legal Action Against MultiChoice
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) had earlier instructed MultiChoice to halt the price increase pending an investigation. However, MultiChoice ignored the directive, leading the FCCPC to file legal charges against the company and its CEO, John Ugbe, for violating regulatory orders.
Save the Consumers has urged the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to increase competition in the pay-TV industry, arguing that MultiChoice’s dominance allows it to exploit consumers.
The NGO also encouraged Nigerians to:
- Consider alternative TV platforms
- Boycott DStv and GOtv until MultiChoice shows “genuine respect” for Nigerian consumers
“No company should be allowed to operate above the law or treat Nigerian consumers as second-class subscribers,” Ilias concluded.
As pressure mounts on MultiChoice, stakeholders await further developments, especially regarding the FCCPC’s legal action and potential government intervention.
Stay tuned to 9am News Nigeria for more Breaking News, Business News, Sports updates And Entertainment Gists.
