MultiChoice remains resolute in implementing increased rates for their DStv and GOtv services, despite a tribunal’s restraining order. Their attorney, M.J. Onibanjo, is vigorously contesting the tribunal’s jurisdiction over pricing matters, seeking to have the case dismissed on these grounds.
On the other side, plaintiff Festus Onifade maintains that MultiChoice willfully defied the tribunal’s directive by proceeding with the price increase on May 1, 2024. Onifade is advocating for the tribunal to impose a substantial penalty of one billion naira on MultiChoice for this act of noncompliance.
Raising the stakes, Onifade has submitted a motion to incarcerate MultiChoice’s Abuja Manager, Mohammed Sageer Sani, for contempt of court, signaling an escalation in the legal confrontation.
During the court session, MultiChoice’s legal representative requested an extension to prepare responses to Onifade’s legal actions. Concurrently, the attorney for the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) indicated their intention to become actively involved in the proceedings.
The FCCPC is preparing to scrutinize MultiChoice’s justification for the price increases and is considering consulting with other regulatory authorities, such as the National Broadcasting Commission and the Nigerian Communications Commission, for their input on the matter.
Acknowledging the complexity of the case, the tribunal decided to postpone the hearing, setting the new court date for May 16th. This delay suggests that the legal battle between MultiChoice and its challengers is set to continue.
