In a recent development, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) has called on the Federal High Court in Abuja to dismiss a lawsuit demanding that Multichoice Nigeria implement a pay-per-view billing system for its DStv and GOtv services. The AGF argues that the case lacks merit and constitutes an abuse of the judicial process.
The Lawsuit Explained
The lawsuit, filed by Maduabuchi O. Idam Esq. on April 29, 2024 (Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/563/2024), demands that Multichoice enable subscribers to roll over unused subscriptions. The suit also lists the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) as co-defendants.
During a court session on February 19, 2025, Multichoice’s counsel, Moyosore J. Onigbanjo (SAN), opposed the lawsuit. Meanwhile, legal representatives for the FCCPC and NBC confirmed that they had filed counter-affidavits, and the AGF’s lawyer submitted a motion on notice requesting the case’s dismissal.
Justice Inyang Ekwo, who presided over the hearing, asked the claimant whether he had received and responded to all submissions. The claimant acknowledged this but indicated that additional affidavits were pending. Consequently, the court adjourned the case to May 6, 2025.
Why the AGF Wants the Case Dismissed
The AGF’s motion, filed on October 25, 2024, argues that the case should be dismissed because the claimant failed to prove any wrongdoing by the AGF. According to the AGF’s lawyer, Maimuna Lami Shiru, the office of the AGF is not responsible for regulating Multichoice or any other TV service provider in Nigeria.
The AGF is not a regulatory body in respect of the subject matter of the claim and has no business in the suit. The AGF is not a proper or necessary party to the suit. The originating process is premature and defective as it relates to the AGF,” Shiru stated.
The Bigger Picture: Multichoice’s Pricing Controversies
Multichoice Nigeria has faced multiple legal battles over its pricing strategies in recent years. The company has consistently argued that factors such as exchange rate fluctuations, rising content acquisition costs, and increased electricity tariffs necessitate its subscription adjustments.
In 2024, a tribunal fined Multichoice ₦150 million and ordered the company to provide a one-month free subscription to affected customers for violating interim orders. However, the ruling was later overturned when the case was withdrawn.
Adding to the controversy, Multichoice recently announced another price increase for all DStv and GOtv packages, set to take effect on March 1, 2025. The company attributes this decision to economic challenges, inflation, and previous subscriber losses.
Regulatory Standpoints
The FCCPC clarified that, although it protects consumer rights, it does not have the authority to regulate pricing structures directly. Similarly, NBC pointed out that its regulatory powers are limited by a previous court ruling, restricting its involvement in pricing matters.
What’s Next?
As the case unfolds, all eyes are on the May 6, 2025, court date, which could significantly impact Nigeria’s pay-TV industry and consumer rights. Whether the lawsuit will be dismissed or continue to trial remains to be seen.
Stay tuned to Techsoma Africa for the latest updates on this story and more in the world of business and technology.
Multichoice’s recent announcement of a price increase across all DStv and GOtv packages, set to take effect on March 1, 2025, has sparked renewed debates on its pricing strategies. Read more about the price hike here.
