Price Hike Uproar: MultiChoice faces social media backlash

MultiChoice, headquartered in South Africa is an entertainment company that operates several satellite television services across Africa. 

The News

The Satellite TV provider, on the 25th of April, notified its subscribers of an increase in the prices of its DSTV and GOTV packages. According to the company, the change is happening "due to the various economic  challenges impacting the business operations." In the memo released, Multichoice says it is aware of the tough economic condition, and has therefore implemented the minimum possible price increase, while also ensuring that its services remain sustainable and of good quality. 

The New Prices 

MultiChoice disclosed that the new prices will apply to the DSTV and GOTV packages with effect from the 1st of May. The company's DSTV premium package will be the one with the largest increase of 3,500 (16.7%) taking it from ₦21,000 to ₦24,500. The Compact + and Compact packages will experience jumps of 16.5% and 16.8% respectively, while the Confam, Yanga, and Padi packages will increase by 17%, 18.6%, and 16.3% respectively.

What are the subscribers saying?

MultiChoice's decision has received its share of media criticism. Subscribers relayed that they experienced 

an increase in the packages in 2020, 2022, and now 2023. Since the announcement was made, a larger part of subscribers took to their Twitter pages to express their displeasure over the development. 

Twitter User, Lola Okunrin @lollypeezle tweeted:

"Can we all just agree to boycott Multichoice and their products (DSTV and GOTV)? The increment in tariffs is getting too much. After every market day, they increase the price while showing the same movie over and over and over again till you know the next scene word for word. Can we?" 

Another Twitter User, Sanni Eniola @mz_teefe quoted Lola's tweet saying:

"Been waiting for someone to just say this. Tbvh we have loads of other options to choose from sef and they are not even as expensive. Multichoice really needs to step up their game."

While a section of the population was venting their frustration over the price increase of the subscriptions, other individuals settled to lambaste Nigerians for merely complaining without taking action. Nigerians were accused to be all bark and no bite when it comes to airing their grievances.

@Magicfitz, a Twitter user said "Lol, Nigerians at it again 🤣. Like they have a better option " 

Another user, @Takeije also said "This was said the last time they increased and nothing was done. Lol" 

May 1st is only a few days away and the new prices will start to work, according to Multichoice. Several Nigerians rely on DSTV; some said they subscribe to the service because of their kids, and football lovers also revealed that they have been stuck to the company because they provide services that show the premier league and  UCL. Given that people still want to access the DSTV and GOTV services, the recent price hike will surely have a significant impact on the budget of many Nigerians.