By Fatima Abubakar, Abuja
Nigerian consumer rights group, Save The Consumers Initiative STCi, has condemned MultiChoice Nigeria over its recent 21% price hike on DStv and GOtv subscriptions, called it “blatantly exploitative and discriminatory.”
The group expressed outrage that while Nigerians are being forced to pay more, South African subscribers are enjoying price cuts of up to 38% alongside additional channels and improved services.
In a statement signed by its Executive Director, Aliyu Ilias, Save the Consumers accused MultiChoice of treating Nigerian consumers unfairly, disregarding regulatory directives, and taking advantage of its dominance in the country’s pay-TV sector.
“It is indefensible for MultiChoice to cite inflation as justification for the hike while reducing costs in South Africa,” Ilias stated.
The advocacy group also slammed the company for ignoring a directive from the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), which had ordered MultiChoice to suspend price adjustments pending an ongoing investigation.
STCi also demanded immediate reversal of the price hike, compensation for subscribers affected by repeated price increases, and strict enforcement of consumer protection laws.
“Nigerian consumers are paying more for less. MultiChoice must stop exploiting Nigerians and comply with regulatory orders,” Ilias added.
In a bold move, Save The Consumers urged Nigerians to boycott DStv and GOtv until MultiChoice demonstrate fair pricing and respect for Nigerian consumers.
“The Nigerian market deserves dignity, not exploitation. No company should treat Nigerian consumers as second-class subscribers,” the group declared.
