FG Slams Multichoice with N766 Million Fine for Data Privacy Violation

 FG Slams Multichoice with N766 Million Fine for Data Privacy Violation

The Federal Government has slammed a fine of ₦766,242,500 on Multichoice Nigeria for breaching the Nigeria Data Protection Act, citing serious violations of subscribers' privacy and unlawful cross-border data transfers.

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) announced the sanction in a statement on Sunday. According to Babatunde Bamigboye, Head of Legal, Enforcement, and Regulations at the NDPC, the penalty followed a detailed investigation launched in Q2 2024 after complaints were raised over the company’s data handling practices.

“The extent of data processing by Multichoice is intrusive, unfair, unnecessary, and disproportionate,” the NDPC stated. “This constitutes a gross violation of the right to privacy guaranteed under Section 37 of the 1999 Constitution.”

Investigators found that Multichoice not only processed customers’ personal data without proper authorization but also handled the data of individuals who had no relationship with the company. Additionally, the firm reportedly transferred Nigerians’ personal data abroad without fulfilling legal requirements.

Though NDPC initially asked Multichoice to take corrective measures, the company’s response was found inadequate. “Due to lack of compliance, Multichoice has been directed to pay ₦766,242,500,” Bamigboye said.

Dr. Vincent Olatunji, the National Commissioner of the NDPC, has now ordered a comprehensive investigation into all Multichoice data collection points across Nigeria. He warned that any outlet found in breach of the law would face sanctions.

The NDPC reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to defending its data sovereignty, stating that violations of this kind not only infringe on individual rights but also threaten national security, the rule of law, and economic integrity.

This latest sanction adds to Multichoice Nigeria’s growing regulatory troubles. In February 2025, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) ordered the company to suspend a proposed price hike. However, Multichoice went ahead with the increase on March 1, 2025, sparking legal action.

The FCCPC has since filed criminal charges against Multichoice Nigeria and its CEO, John Ugbe, accusing them of obstructing a regulatory investigation, disobeying official directives, and spreading false information—breaches of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act of 2018.