On Monday, a Competition and Consumer Protection Tribunal (CCPT) in Abuja prohibited Multi-Choice Nigeria Limited from increasing its tariffs and the cost of products and services set to commence on May 1.
Under the leadership of Saratu Shafii, a three-member tribunal granted the interim order in response to an ex-parte motion presented by Ejiro Awaritoma, who is the counsel for the applicant, Festus Onifade.
The tribunal issued a ruling that prevented Multi-Choice from implementing the planned price hike set to start on May 1, until the motion on notice filed before it is heard and determined.
Shafii directed all parties involved in the suit to attend the tribunal on May 7 at 10 a.m. for the hearing and decision on the motion on notice.
In the suit marked CCPT/OP/2/2024, Onifade brought Multi-Choice Nigeria Ltd and Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) before the tribunal. On April 29, Onifade, who is also a legal practitioner, filed a suit and requested two orders.
These include, “an order of interim injunction of this honourable tribunal restraining the 1st defendant 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.
“An order restraining the 1st defendant from taking any step(s) that may negatively affect the rights of the claimant and other consumers in respect of the suit pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice.”
Among the tribunal members are Thomas Okosun and Dr. Umar Duhu.
