Multichoice Fined ₦766m Over Data Privacy Violations

By Ikpommwosa Odigie

The Federal Government has imposed a fine of ₦766,242,500 on Multichoice Nigeria for violating the Nigeria Data Protection Act, citing multiple breaches of subscribers’ privacy rights and the unauthorised transfer of citizens’ personal data across borders.

The sanction, announced by the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), follows a comprehensive investigation launched in the second quarter of 2024 after reports emerged accusing the pay-TV operator of intrusive data processing activities.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Head of Legal, Enforcement and Regulations at the NDPC, Babatunde Bamigboye, confirmed that the investigation uncovered grave infractions, including the unlawful processing of personal data belonging to subscribers and non-subscribers alike.

According to the NDPC, Multichoice also transferred Nigerians’ personal data abroad without adhering to the mandatory legal protocols required under the Data Protection Act. The Commission had directed the company to implement remedial measures, but the firm’s response was deemed unsatisfactory, prompting the financial penalty.

The National Commissioner of the NDPC, Dr. Vincent Olatunji, has consequently ordered a nationwide audit of all Multichoice data collection points and processing centres. He warned that any further breaches would attract additional penalties, noting that the Commission remains committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s data sovereignty in line with both local and international regulations.

This development adds to Multichoice Nigeria’s growing regulatory challenges. In February 2025, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) ordered the company to halt a planned subscription price hike pending the conclusion of an investigation into its market conduct. However, Multichoice defied the directive, implementing the increase on March 1, 2025.

The FCCPC later filed criminal charges against Multichoice Nigeria Limited and its Chief Executive Officer, John Ugbe, for allegedly obstructing regulatory investigations, defying lawful orders, and providing misleading information.

The charges cover several violations under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018, including willful obstruction, impeding an investigation, and submitting false or misleading statements to regulators.

The NDPC reiterated the government’s determination to protect the personal data of Nigerian citizens, stressing that any violations carry implications for national security, the rule of law, and economic development.

The NDPC stated that it would continue to enforce the provisions of the Nigeria Data Protection Act without fear or favour, to uphold data protection rights and international best practices in data management.