Key Concerns Raised by Save the Consumers
1. Economic Discrimination: he group accused MultiChoice of applying a double standard by increasing prices in Nigeria while reducing them in South Africa. In South Africa, MultiChoice has lowered prices by up to 38% and introduced service enhancements, such as additional channels and improved streaming features. Meanwhile, Nigerian subscribers face higher costs without corresponding improvements in service quality.
“This action is not only insensitive and exploitative but also blatantly discriminatory,” the statement read. “Lowering prices at home while increasing them in Nigeria amounts to economic discrimination.”
2. Disregard for Regulatory Authority: he price hike comes despite a directive from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) ordering MultiChoice to suspend any price changes pending an ongoing investigation. Save the Consumers described the move as a clear disregard for both Nigerian consumers and regulatory authorities.
3. Poor Service Quality: The group highlighted that Nigerian subscribers regularly face issues such as repetitive content, frequent service disruptions, and poor value for money. Instead of addressing these concerns, MultiChoice has chosen to impose higher prices, further burdening its customers.
4. Monopolistic Practices: Save the Consumers criticized MultiChoice for exploiting its near-monopolistic position in the Nigerian pay-TV market. The group argued that the lack of competition allows MultiChoice to operate with impunity, increasing prices without fear of losing market share.
MultiChoice’s Justification and Consumer Backlash
MultiChoice has attributed the price hike to inflation and rising operational costs in Nigeria. However, Save the Consumers dismissed this explanation, calling it a “disturbing double standard.” The group pointed out that MultiChoice CEO Byron Du Plessis had acknowledged the financial pressures faced by households in South Africa, leading to price reductions there—a courtesy not extended to Nigerian consumers.
Calls for Action
Save the Consumers has made several demands, including:
- An immediate reversal of the price hike.
- Compensation for affected Nigerian subscribers.
- Compliance with the FCCPC’s directive to suspend pricing adjustments.
- Regulatory intervention by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to introduce stronger competition in the pay-TV sector.
The group also urged Nigerian consumers to explore alternative platforms and consider boycotting DStv and GOtv until MultiChoice demonstrates genuine respect for their rights.
The statement concluded with a strong message: “The Nigerian market deserves dignity, not exploitation. No company should be allowed to operate above the law or treat Nigerian consumers as second-class subscribers.”
The backlash against MultiChoice highlights growing frustration among Nigerian consumers over rising costs and poor service quality. It also underscores the need for regulatory action to foster competition and protect consumer rights in the pay-TV sector.