The Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out a lawsuit filed by MultiChoice Nigeria, which sought to stop the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) from intervening in its recent subscription price increase.
Justice James Omotoso ruled that the case constituted an abuse of court process, noting that a similar matter is already before another court.
While affirming the FCCPC’s power to investigate market practices, the court clarified that the commission cannot impose, freeze, or regulate prices without a presidential directive via a gazetted order.
The judge further held that the FCCPC breached MultiChoice’s right to a fair hearing and dismissed allegations that the company holds a monopoly in the market.