Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal Halts Multi-choice Tariff Increase

In a significant development for consumers, the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal (CCPT) sitting in Abuja has issued a restraining order against Multi-choice Nigeria Limited, preventing the telecommunications giant from implementing its proposed tariff hikes and price adjustments slated to commence on May 1.

The three-member tribunal, led by the esteemed Saratu Shafii, handed down the interim injunction on Monday in response to an ex-parte motion presented by Ejiro Awaritoma, legal counsel representing the applicant, Festus Onifade.

In delivering the ruling, Chairperson Saratu Shafii emphasized the necessity of halting Multi-choice's intended price increases pending the adjudication of the motion on notice.

The tribunal's directive effectively prohibits Multi-choice from proceeding with its planned tariff adjustments scheduled to come into effect from May 1, until a full hearing and determination of the case, slated for May 7 at 10 a.m.

The legal action was initiated by Festus Onifade, who brought a case against Multi-choice Nigeria Ltd and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) before the tribunal.

Onifade, in the suit filed on April 29, sought two principal orders from the tribunal:

1. Interim Injunction: A restraining order against Multi-choice Nigeria Limited, its affiliates, and representatives from implementing the proposed price increases set to take effect from May 1, 2024, until the motion on notice is heard and determined.

2. Protection of Consumer Rights: An order preventing Multi-choice from taking any actions that could adversely affect the rights of the claimant and other consumers, pending the resolution of the motion on notice.

The tribunal's decision represents a significant victory for consumer advocacy and underscores the importance of regulatory oversight in ensuring fair and transparent business practices within the telecommunications industry. Multi-choice Nigeria Limited is expected to comply with the tribunal's order pending further legal proceedings.

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