By Tosin Olatokunbo
The Nigerian Senate has warned MultiChoice, the mother company of DStv not to go ahead with its plan tariff hike. The South African pay television firm has recently announced a hike in the price of its various bouquets.
The increase has been greeted with codemnations from Nigerians who are not happy with the Company’s decision to hike price every two years without corresponding improvement in the quality of its services.
But while speaking to the ad adhoc committee to look into the issue on Tuesday, Ahmad Lawan, President of the Senate directed MultiChoice management to stay with the old price until the conclusion of investigation on the issue.
The Senate President warned the satellite television provider not to trample on the rights of consumers, noting that the Nigerian government has provided a good atmosphere for businesses to operate.
“No increase. And that is to say, don’t dare our country. No increase in tariffs. No operator should take us for granted. We mean business. We want you to be here. Nigeria always provides the climate for you to do your businesses, but don’t abuse the laws of our country,” Lawan said.
He said the National Assembly will do all in its powers to protect consumers from arbitrary price increase, adding that the Senate has a duty to protect Nigerians.
According to him, “Our consumers here are people who are innocent and we are prepared to protect them.
“When the legitimate interests of our people are threatened, we are supposed to ensure that we protect them.
“It has been the practice of many companies, especially foreign companies, operating in Nigeria to treat the Nigerian consumers of their products in a different way and manner that is not consistent with global best practices.”
Meanwhile while, the Central Bank of Nigeria has approved another South African firm, MTN to operate as Payment Service Banks.
In a statement, the telecommunications company said the apex bank approved in principle that MTN should joined other telecommunications providers in the country such as Glo, 9mobile to operate as a fintech.
“MTN Nigeria Communications PIc (MN Nigeria) announces the receipt of a letter dated 8 April 2022 from the CBN addressed to Momo PSB conveying final approval to commence operations.
“The date of commencement will be communicated to the CBN in accordance with its requirements.
“MTN Nigeria affirms its commitment towards the financial inclusion agenda of the CBN and the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and we are excited at this opportunity to support its fulfilment,” MTN said.
