Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on DSTV to appear before the Nigerian Senate over what he described as unfair billing practices against Nigerian subscribers.
Speaking during a Senate session, Akpabio criticized the pay-TV company for allegedly treating Nigerian customers differently from subscribers in South Africa. According to him, DSTV operates a pay-per-view system in South Africa but continues to charge Nigerians fixed subscription fees regardless of usage.
“DSTV must appear before this Senate. In South Africa, they charge per view but cheat us here in Nigeria,” Akpabio stated during the discussion, drawing reactions from lawmakers and Nigerians on social media. ....…
The Senate President’s comments come amid growing public frustration over repeated subscription price increases by DSTV in Nigeria. Many subscribers have complained about expensive packages, poor customer experience, and the lack of flexible payment options.
Several Nigerians have long demanded a pay-as-you-watch billing system similar to what is available in some other countries. Consumers argue that they should only pay for channels or content they actually watch instead of being forced into fixed bouquet packages.
The issue of DSTV pricing has repeatedly sparked debates between Nigerian authorities and MultiChoice, the company behind DSTV. Regulatory agencies and consumer protection groups have in the past questioned the company’s pricing structure and market dominance in the country.
Akpabio’s statement is expected to intensify pressure on the pay-TV provider as lawmakers may invite company representatives to explain their pricing model and operations in Nigeria.
