The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has fined Multichoice Nigeria ₦766,242,500 (approximately GHS 5,210,449) for violating the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDP Act), following an investigation into alleged breaches of data privacy rights.
The investigation, launched in the second quarter of 2024, was prompted by concerns that Multichoice had transferred personal data of both subscribers and non-subscribers across borders without proper consent or safeguards, the Commission said in a statement.
The NDPC concluded that Multichoice had engaged in data processing practices that were “intrusive, unfair, unnecessary and disproportionate,” calling them a fundamental violation of privacy rights guaranteed under Section 37 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution.
The Commission also described the remedial measures submitted by Multichoice as “unsatisfactory” and said the company failed to fully cooperate with the investigation, leading to the imposition of the financial penalty.
In addition, National Commissioner Dr. Vincent Olatunji directed a broader audit of all platforms and outlets through which Multichoice collects data from Nigerians. The NDPC warned that any organization found processing data unlawfully would face penalties in line with the NDP Act.
The enforcement action underscores the NDPC’s commitment to upholding data protection standards and digital rights as Nigeria’s digital economy grows.
Meanwhile, in Ghana, Multichoice faces separate regulatory pressure. Authorities have given the company until July 21, 2025, to respond to a government request for a 30% reduction in DSTV subscription prices, part of ongoing efforts to address consumer concerns over rising pay-TV costs.
The developments reflect growing scrutiny of Multichoice’s operations across African markets, as governments move to enforce data protection standards and address pricing concerns in the digital and broadcast sectors.
