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BATTLE LINE… Multichoice challenges tribunal’s jurisdiction over price hike

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A prominent Pay-TV operator, Multichoice Nigeria, has challenged the jurisdiction of the Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal (CCPT) sitting in Abuja which recently restrained it from increasing in the prices of its DStv and GOtv packages.

Multichoice’s lawyer, M.J. Onibanjo (SAN) told the CCPT via his application on Tuesday that it should decline jurisdiction on the suit filed by Festus Onifade because such a price dispute case had been decided before in favor of his client.

In his motion on notice seen by Nairametrics, Onibanjo argued that while Onifade is seeking to regulate prices of the services provided by Multichoice, the Tribunal, not being the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria lacks the jurisdiction to regulate prices of goods and services under the FCCPA 2018.

The senior lawyer maintained that the planned increase announced by Multichoice on 24th April 2024 is a completed act because all its systems have been so configured.

“An order of this honorable tribunal striking out suit no: CCPT/OP/2/2024 between Festus Onifade and Multichoice Nigeria for want of jurisdiction.

“An order staying the execution and enforcement of the instant interim orders of this honorable tribunal granted on 29th, April, 2024,” Onibanjo prayed in his motion.

Nairametrics previously reported that the tribunal had restrained MultiChoice from increasing its subscription rates pending the hearing and determination of a motion on notice filed by Festus Onifade through his lawyer, Ejiro Awaritoma.

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Onifade, who sued Multi-Choice Nigeria Ltd, and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), accused the former of unjustly increasing subscription fees.

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He had sought interim orders against the Pay TV.

Last Monday, a three-member tribunal chaired by Saratu Shafii, ruled in favor of Onifade by restraining Multichoice in the interim, in the suit marked CCPT/OP/2/2024.

The court held that “the 1st Defendant(Multichoice) is hereby restrained, whether by themselves, her privies, assigns by whatsoever name called, from going ahead with impending price increase schedule to take effect from 1st May 2024 pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice already filed before this Honourable Tribunal.”

On his part, Onifade filed a counter affidavit maintaining that the present matter does not seek to regulate prices of goods and services of Multichoice as claimed.

“The matter FESTUS SANMI ONIFADE & 1 ORS VS. MULTI- CHOICE NIGERIA LIMITED & 1 ORS previously decided by this honourable Tribunal and the present suit are not the-same both in parties and subject-matter,” he added.

Via his fresh motion seen by Nairametrics, he asked the Tribunal to direct Multi-choice Nigeria Limited to pay the sum of N1,000,000,000.00 (One Billion Naira only) or any amount the Tribunal deem may fit appropriate in this circumstance for “deliberately disobeying, contravening, and failure to comply with the Interim Order of this Honourable Tribunal granted on the 29th April 2024.”

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Onifade contended that despite the subsisting order of the court, Multichoice neglected it by wilfully increasing the tariffs of her products and services on May 1st, 2024.

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Moreover, before the Tribunal, Onifade filed Form 48- a notice which seeks to commit a party to prison for alleged disobedience to court orders.

The notice was filed against Mohammed Sageer Sani, the Abuja manager of Multi-Choice Nigeria Limited, adding, “You will be guilty of contempt of this Tribunal and will be committed to prison.”

At the resumed sitting, Onibanjo urged the court to determine his motion challenging the jurisdiction of the tribunal to make the orders it made and to entertain the claimant’s suit.

On the part of N. Adeke, counsel for the FCCPC, he acknowledged receiving the motion on notice filed by the claimant as well as the memorandum of conditional appearance and motion of Multichoice.

“The commission intends to respond to the motion on notice filed by the defendant.

“We ask for a short date to respond to the motion,” Adeke prayed.

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On the calls for an adjournment, Onifade said he is not opposed to an adjournment, however, he will be asking the matter be adjourned for full-blown hearing.

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But the three-man panel chaired by Justice Thomas Okosu adjourned the suit to May 16 to enable all parties to file necessary applications.

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Multichoice announced new price adjustments on DStv and GOtv packages on Wednesday, April 24, 2024.

The email message to subscribers read, “On Wednesday, 1 May 2024 we will adjust our prices across all our packages on OStv and GOtv. We understand the impact this change may have on you – our valued customer, but the rise in the cost of business operations, has led us to make this difficult decision. It remains our mission to provide the best entertainment and viewing experience to you and are committed to continue to deliver high-quality content and unparalleled service.”

Nairametrics previously reported that the development had resulted in a 25% to 26% increase across Multichoice packages.

But amid the subsisting ruling, the popular Pay TV provider proceeded with the upward adjustment of its prices for DStv and GOtv subscribers,

On the part of the commission, it said it would review the reasons identified by Multichoice, noting that the agency could involve regulatory bodies such as the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) and the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) in the process.

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World’s Oldest President Paul Biya Wins 8th Term In Cameroon

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Paul Biya

President Paul Biya has been declared winner of Cameroon’s presidential election, extending his rule to a record eighth consecutive term despite opposition claims of electoral fraud.

The Constitutional Council announced on Monday that Biya, 92, emerged victorious in the country’s disputed poll, cementing his position as the world’s oldest serving head of state. The result means Biya, who has ruled since 1982, will remain in power until 2032.

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However, the declaration has been met with strong rejection from opposition leaders. Issa Tchiroma Bakary, Biya’s main challenger, had earlier declared himself the winner, insisting that the official result would be “tainted” and “not reflective of the people’s will.”

 

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Men With One Wife Are In Bondage – Nigeria Senator Defends Polygamy

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Men With One Wife Are In Bondage - Nigeria Senator Defends Polygamy

The senator representing Delta North, Ned Nwoko, has said he feels sorry for men who have only one wife, arguing that polygamy gives men greater stability and balance.

The lawmaker stated this on Sunday while appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today.

He also addressed recent allegations of domestic violence made against him by his actress wife, Regina Daniels.

When asked how he manages to live with four wives, something many men find difficult, Nwoko paused briefly before replying.

“That is a different topic for discussion on another day. Yes, every man should do that. The example I give is this: just imagine telling you to stand on one foot or leg. You know how difficult it is.

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“But to stand on two, three, four is much more balanced. That’s just the example I give. So I feel sorry for those who have one wife because it’s difficult to stand on one leg,” he said.

When reminded that the Holy Bible does not support polygamy, Nwoko maintained that it does. “The Old Testament does. I am a man of faith. But that’s not what we are here for,” he said.

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Asked if he had any regrets about his marital choices, the senator said he did not.

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“No, I don’t have any regret. I will do the same thing again. Of course, that’s the way it should be. You should marry who you want to marry,” he stated.

Reacting to the allegations of domestic violence, Nwoko denied the claims. “No, come on. You know I am not a violent person. I respect my wives. I love them and my kids,” he said.

His comments came shortly after Regina Daniels, his estranged wife, showed off a newly acquired mansion on social media amid reports of a marital crisis.

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Tribune Online reports that in a post on Instagram on Sunday, the Nollywood actress shared photos and videos of the property with the caption, “In my house, I am a Queen! I needed a roof over my head, so I got this for me and my family.”

The post came after a viral video from October 18 showed her in tears outside her Abuja residence, alleging abuse.

“In Ned Nwoko’s house, I am nothing, but in my own house, I am a Queen. Not again. I can’t stand the violence, it’s too much,” she said.

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BREAKING: Naira Crushes Dollar, Pounds, Euro In Fresh Rates

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BREAKING: Naira Crushes Dollar, Pounds, Euro In Fresh Rate, Reasons Emerge

Nigerians are experiencing a sense of relief as the naira shows significant improvement in value against major currencies such as the US dollar, British pound, and euro.

As the naira gains strength, many are optimistic that this shift could lead to a more stable financial environment and improved purchasing power for the average Nigerian.

The strong performance comes as the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) formally announced Nigeria’s removal from the list of jurisdictions under increased monitoring, known as the “grey list”, following a successful on-site evaluation of reforms implemented across the financial system.

Data from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) shows that the naira has appreciated against the dollar to N1,455.50, a significant rise compared to the N1,630 per dollar recorded in July.

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Naira also improved against the pound and euro, exchanging at N1,946.5 per pound and N1,696 per euro, respectively.

In the parallel market, checks by Legit.ng confirmed a similar trend. The naira exchanged between N1,482 and N1,492 per dollar, down from N1,520 recorded earlier in the week.

The pound also weakened to around N2,000, while the euro fell to N1,720. Abubakar Musa, a trader, told Legit.ng “The market is in favour of naira in the last few days. There is more forex in the market reason we are selling pound below N2,000 exchange rate.”

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CFA: N2.59

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Yuan/Renminbi: N204.70

Danish Krona: N227.04

Euro: N1,696.33

Yen: N9.54

Riyal: N388.77

South African Rand: N84.43

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Swiss Franc: N1,834.83

Pound Sterling: N1,946.52

US Dollar: N1,457.96

In February 2023, the FATF, a financial crimes watchdog based in France, placed Nigeria on the grey list.

The message from the global community was clear: the nation needed more vigorous enforcement, better coordination, and greater transparency.

The removal of Nigeria from the grey list showed that the country has made progress in strengthening its anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing framework.

READ ALSO  BREAKING: Naira Crushes Dollar, Pounds, Euro In Fresh Rates

Bismarck Rewane, CEO of Financial Derivatives Company, said that the removal of Nigeria from the grey list means a whole lot, noting it will boost the naira. Also, Tayo Oviosu, CEO of Paga, said: “This is a big deal because it opens up the country for FDI and engagement from the West, especially.”

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The CBN also welcomed the FATF decision reinforces the broader restoration of global confidence in Nigeria’s economic management.

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ALTAR WAR: Why Many Ex-MFM Members Attack The Founder Dr. Olukoya; Church Senior Pastor Exposes Issues

Source: MyNigeria

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IPOB: Nnamdi Kanu Begins Trial Defence With ‘Words Of God’

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IPOB: Nnamdi Kanu Begins Trial Defence With 'Words Of God'

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB, Nnamdi Kanu, has declared that God in heaven is a God of justice, as reported by Daily Post.

Kanu disclosed this while arriving at the Abuja Federal High Court to begin his defence in his ongoing terrorism trial.

He accused lawyers of not knowing what the law and justice is.

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According to Kanu: “You are here you don’t know what law is, you don’t know what Justice is. You don’t know that God is a God of Justice, you don’t know that?

“You don’t know that God in heaven is a God of Justice, you don’t know that?”

The IPOB leader is expected to begin his defence today after he names some imminent Nigerians to testify in his trial.

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Last week, Kanu had disengaged his lawyers, stressing that he would defend himself before the Justice James Omotosho-led court.

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UNCOVERED: Police Bust ‘Factory Where Babies Were Sold Below N500k In Southwest State

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UNCOVERED: Police Bust ‘Factory Where Babies Were Sold Below N500k In Southwest State

The Ondo State Police Command has uncovered a suspected baby factory and human trafficking syndicate operating in Ore, the headquarters of the Odigbo Local Government Area of the state, according to Channels Television.

This was contained in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the Command, DSP Olushola Ayanlade.

Ayanlade said the case, which originated from the Ore division, had been transferred to the Command’s Gender-Based Violence Unit for thorough investigation.

The discovery followed a report made on October 21, 2025, by a 17-year-old girl, identified as Vivian Peter from Akwa Ibom State, who told the police that she had been trafficked from her home state to Ore under the guise of securing a job opportunity.

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Upon arrival in Ore, the teenager was allegedly taken to a facility posing as a clinic, which later turned out to be a baby factory.

There, she reportedly met other pregnant girls being held against their will.

She disclosed that the operator of the facility, Ada Clement, instructed her to be taken to another hospital for a medical scan, but she managed to escape and reported the incident to the Ore Police Division.

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Acting swiftly on the report, police operatives from the Ore division, in collaboration with the gender unit, raided the facility, rescuing five pregnant girls and a baby boy.

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One of the victims had already given birth and is currently receiving post-natal care at the General Hospital, Ore, while the others are in protective custody.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the prime suspect, Ada Clement, and some of her accomplices had confessed to operating the baby factory.

They reportedly admitted that the babies were sold to individuals seeking children, with male babies going for ₦600,000 and above, and female babies for ₦400,000 and above.

Ayanlade noted that the Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, ordered a comprehensive and discreet investigation to ensure that all members of the syndicate are arrested and prosecuted.

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He noted that detectives from the Command’s Gender-Based Violence Unit were already on the trail of other fleeing members of the ring.

Lawal reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to the directives of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, stressing that the Nigeria Police Force remains steadfast in the fight against human trafficking, child exploitation, and all forms of gender-based violence.

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Lawal assured the public that the Command would continue to protect the vulnerable and ensure justice for victims of such heinous crimes.

 

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BREAKING: List Of Possible New States In Nigeria As National Assembly Takes Action

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Proposals for new states in Nigeria are gaining traction after successfully passing the second reading in the House of Representatives.

The bills, sponsored by lawmakers from various regions, aim to create new administrative entities by dividing existing states.

If approved, these new states could significantly alter the country’s geopolitical landscape and governance framework.

Below is a comprehensive listicle detailing each proposed state.

Ibadan State: On 9 October 2025, the Cable reported that a bill seeking to create Ibadan State from the existing Oyo State had passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.

The proposed legislation, sponsored by Abass Adigun—who represents the Ibadan North East/Ibadan South East federal constituency—aimed to amend the 1999 Constitution to facilitate the creation of the new state.

Ijebu State: On 23 October 2025, Vanguard confirmed that the House of Representatives had passed for second reading a bill proposing the creation of Ijebu State from the present Ogun State.

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The legislation was sponsored by Hon. Olufemi Ogunbanwo, representing Ijebu Ode/Ijebu North East/Odogbolu Federal Constituency, alongside three other lawmakers.

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The bill’s progression through the second reading stage depicted the growing demand for administrative decentralisation in the South-West, with proponents arguing that the Ijebu region deserved its own statehood due to its historical and economic significance.

Oke-Ogun, Ife-Ijesa, and Ijebu States featured in multi-state creation bill: In March 2025, Dailyrust reported that four bills seeking the creation of additional states had successfully passed second reading in the House of Representatives.

Among them was a consolidated bill sponsored by Rep. Oluwole Oke, which proposed the creation of three new states: Oke-Ogun State, Ijebu State, and Ife-Ijesa State.

This legislative package aimed to amend Part 1 of the First Schedule of the 1999 Constitution. The inclusion of Ijebu State in this bill reaffirmed its legislative traction, while Oke-Ogun and Ife-Ijesa emerged as fresh contenders for statehood in the South-West region.

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Tiga state proposal gains ground in Kano region: Also among the bills reported by Dailyrust was HB.1308, sponsored by Rep. Ghali Mustapha Tijani. This legislation sought to create Tiga State from the present Kano State, with Rano proposed as the state capital.

The bill’s advancement to second reading reflected growing calls for administrative restructuring in the North-West, where population density and regional diversity have fuelled demands for more localised governance.

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Orlu State: Rep. Ikweagwuonu Ugochinyere sponsored HB.1430, a bill proposing the creation of Orlu State in the South-East region of Nigeria. According to Dailyrust, the bill passed second reading in March 2025, marking a significant step in the campaign for increased representation and autonomy in the region.

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The proposed Orlu State would be carved from existing territories in the South-East, aiming to address long-standing concerns over political marginalisation and resource allocation.

Etiti State: Another South-East initiative was sponsored by Rep. George Ibezimako Ozodinobi. The bill proposed the creation of Etiti State, with Okigwe designated as its capital.

It successfully passed second reading in March 2025, as reported by Dailyrust. The legislation aimed to carve Etiti State from the existing five states in the South-East, reflecting a strategic push to enhance administrative efficiency and regional development.

While the bills have cleared second reading, they must still undergo further scrutiny and approval before any new states can be officially created.

 

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