The Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal, CCPT, sitting in Abuja, on Friday, awarded a fine of N150 million against MultiChoice Nigeria Limited for disrespecting its jurisdiction by flouting its order.
Jerrymusa.com reports that the tribunal has ordered MultiChoice to provide a one-month free subscription to Nigerians on its DSTV and GOTV services, in addition to a N150m fine for contempt.
The three-member panel, led by Saratu Shafii, made the ruling after MultiChoice failed to comply with a previous restraining order against hiking its tariffs and prices.
Law Suit Against Multichoice
The order was issued in response to an ex-parte motion filed by legal practitioner Festus Onifade on behalf of MultiChoice subscribers.
The tribunal had earlier restrained MultiChoice from increasing its prices on May 1, but the company went ahead with the hike despite the order. The tribunal has now fixed July 3 to hear the substantive action against MultiChoice.
The ruling is a significant victory for consumers, who had complained about the company’s planned price increase.
The tribunal’s decision sends a strong message to businesses that they must respect the rights of consumers and comply with regulatory orders.
The panel’s ruling is a unanimous decision, with Thomas Okosun and Dr. Umar Duhu concurring with Saratu Shafii.