Over the last two years, MultiChoice Nigeria has introduced a series of price hikes, leading many subscribers to question the value they are receiving.
Recently, a major player in the industry announced a tariff increase for its DStv and GOtv packages, which has sparked mixed reactions from both subscribers and stakeholders. While price hikes are popular, the company justifies the move as essential for sustaining its operations and continuing its investments in Nigeria’s creative and entertainment sectors.
However, critics argue that MultiChoice has been slow to innovate and improve its content offerings, leaving subscribers dissatisfied as they feel they are paying more for the same service.
Although the rising operational costs have stirred unrest, the reality is that unless the underlying causes of Nigeria’s high cost of living and doing business are genuinely addressed, the situation may continue to worsen, with Nigerians bearing the brunt of it.
MultiChoice’s Justification for the Price Increase
In defense of the price hike, MultiChoice points to the depreciation of the naira, which has significantly reduced its value, alongside high inflation that has driven up operational expenses. These challenges are not unique to MultiChoice, as many companies both private and government owned are facing similar difficulties.
Currently, Nigeria’s inflation rate is among the highest in Africa, with rising costs for food, transportation, energy, and security, even after the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) rebased the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Consequently, many small and medium-sized enterprises have been forced to close, exacerbating the country’s unemployment crisis. Numerous businesses that could have contributed to economic growth have been unable to launch due to these harsh conditions.
Prince Shina Bilesanmi, president of the Association of Telephone, Cable TV, and Internet Subscribers of Nigeria (ATCIS), shared his views on the price increase during a morning show with LN247.
He criticized regulatory bodies for their failure to adequately monitor pricing, commending the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for its efforts to regulate prices. He also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to closely monitor the Broadcast Media Companies (BMC), as their performance has not been fulfilling expectations.
Competition and Consumer Choice
While MultiChoice asserts its right to adjust prices based on operational costs and market conditions, critics argue that its dominant market position allows it to implement price hikes without facing significant competition. Many consumers feel trapped in a market where a few service providers dictate prices, with affordability becoming an increasing concern.
Legal challenges may prompt further discussions on whether stricter regulations are necessary to ensure fair pricing and quality service, especially in industries prone to monopolistic practices. Although the FCCPC has positioned itself as a watchdog against unfair trade practices, its role in regulating pricing remains a contentious issue.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has stepped up patrols on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway to crack down on reckless drivers, particularly those driving against oncoming traffic.
The Officer-in-Charge of the Ibafo Outpost, Ogun State, Ibrahim Olajide, made this known on Wednesday, emphasizing that the move is part of a special intervention initiative to enhance road safety.
“Last Thursday, the FRSC Corridor 1 Command, covering Lagos to Ibadan, launched a special intervention targeting road violations, especially wrong-way driving. This initiative, carried out in collaboration with sister agencies, will now be conducted regularly to ensure compliance,” Olajide stated.
He further noted that human error remains a major cause of accidents on the expressway. Contributing factors include speeding, reckless overtaking, drunk driving, overloading, distracted driving (such as using mobile phones), impatience, and expired tires.
In cases of major accidents, the FRSC collaborates with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) to restore normal traffic flow. Due to the high volume of vehicles on the expressway, even minor crashes often lead to significant congestion.
Olajide assured motorists that the FRSC, alongside other agencies, is committed to ensuring quick response times by clearing accident sites efficiently and diverting traffic when necessary.
Accompanying Olajide during the announcement were Public Enlightenment Officer Ogunbanjo Jimmy and Protocol Officer Opeyemi Aladesiun.
Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chibudom Nwuche, has backed President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, asserting that the move prevented widespread violence and instability in the oil-rich region.
Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, Nwuche emphasized that the prolonged political crisis had hindered governance and discouraged investment. He called on the National Assembly to swiftly approve the emergency rule to ensure lasting peace and stability.
“The President’s action has saved Rivers from descending into lawlessness. The crisis had dragged on for over a year, pushing the state towards anarchy. Businesses were shutting down, and uncertainty clouded governance. The declaration has restored order,” Nwuche stated.
He further warned that worsening security threats, including attacks on critical oil installations, posed a significant danger.
“A situation where criminals resort to blowing up pipelines is a dangerous trend. Threats of sabotage and attacks on national assets cannot be condoned,” he said.
Nwuche urged political leaders to use this period to resolve disputes peacefully and put the state’s interest first. He emphasized that democracy should be tailored to Nigeria’s unique realities rather than blindly following foreign models.
“I call on the National Assembly to approve the emergency rule without delay so governance can return to normal in Rivers State. Political leaders should settle disputes within the ambit of the law,” he added.
He dismissed claims of ethnic divisions fueling the crisis, insisting that Rivers people have always coexisted harmoniously.
“Elections in Rivers were not won on ethnic lines. My people, the Ekpeye, alongside the Ikwerre, Ogoni, Kalabari, Igbani, and Etche, voted together. This crisis is being fueled by external forces for selfish gains,” Nwuche said.
He urged residents to support Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (retd.), the newly appointed Sole Administrator, to restore peace and progress in the state.
“The President’s decision was in the best interest of Rivers people. I urge all residents to support the new leadership and allow stability to return,” he concluded.
The United States has put a hold on the disbursement of $2.6 billion in climate finance to South Africa, raising concerns that the funding may be withheld entirely, according to a report by Bloomberg News.
Earlier this month, U.S. representatives blocked the World Bank-linked Climate Investment Funds (CIF) from approving an initial $500 million disbursement to South Africa. This funding was intended to unlock an additional $2.1 billion from multilateral development banks and other financial sources.
A new attempt to approve the disbursement may be made during CIF meetings in June. The CIF is one of the world’s largest multilateral funds dedicated to scaling up climate solutions in developing countries.
If confirmed, this delay would align with previous actions by the Trump administration to scale back participation in global climate initiatives. In March, the U.S. withdrew from the board of the United Nations’ climate damage fund, which provides support to nations affected by climate-related disasters.
The Abuja-Keffi expressway turned into a war zone last Wednesday as a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) tanker lost control, igniting a blast that sent shockwaves across the capital’s outskirts. Gas canisters were flung hundreds of meters, flames consumed vehicles, and residents scrambled for safety. Just days earlier, another tanker exploded on Lagos’ infamous Otedola Bridge, killing several and once again spotlighting Nigeria’s ticking time bombs—its fuel tankers.
Recurring Tragedies on Nigeria’s Roads
The Otedola axis has become synonymous with tanker-related disasters, claiming dozens of lives in the past decade. Combined, the recent Abuja and Lagos tragedies paint a disturbing picture of a country where transporting fuel and gas is fraught with danger.
A Long, Deadly Pattern
But this isn’t just another tragic accident. It’s part of a long, deadly pattern. Across Nigeria, highways have become corridors of chaos, where fuel tankers—whether loaded with petrol, diesel, or gas—pose constant threats to life and property. Just weeks before Abuja’s latest blast, a petrol tanker crash in Niger State killed dozens. In Enugu, another tanker left a trail of death and destruction.
Brake Failure and Other Repeated Explanations
Investigations into the Abuja blast pointed to brake failure—an all-too-common cause cited in Nigerian tanker incidents. But for many Nigerians, these explanations have worn thin.
“We’ve heard it before: bad brakes, driver error, poor roads,” lamented a Lagos commuter at the scene of the Otedola accident. “But how many more people must die before they fix this system?”
Nigeria’s Outdated Fuel Transport System
“We’re dealing with outdated logistics,” says Dr. Olufemi Bakare, an energy and transport policy expert. “Most developed countries wouldn’t dream of moving highly flammable cargo over long distances on such treacherous roads.”
Unlike developed nations where pipelines and railways serve as the backbone of fuel distribution, Nigeria relies overwhelmingly on road transport. Crumbling highways, coupled with aging tankers, amplify the risk.
Overdependence on Road Transport
According to analysts, 80% of Nigeria’s petroleum products are moved by road, a staggering statistic compared to countries like Germany or Canada, where road tankers serve only as short-distance carriers from depots to stations.
“The difference is night and day,” says Bakare. “In Europe, you won’t even find someone walking into a filling station with a jerrycan. It’s considered reckless.”
Fuel Transport Regulations: Nigeria vs. Developed Countries
In Europe, strict regulations govern fuel transport. Trucks undergo rigorous safety checks, and drivers must complete specialized hazardous materials training. Even public behavior differs starkly.
In Nigeria, it’s common to find residents queuing at petrol stations with jerrycans or transporting gas cylinders on commercial buses. In Western countries, such practices are outlawed and aggressively enforced.
Failed Reforms and Weak Enforcement
Despite previous calls for reforms—such as diverting bulk fuel transport to pipelines or revitalizing Nigeria’s dormant rail system—little has changed. Experts argue that without immediate investment in alternative transport infrastructure and strict regulatory enforcement, the cycle of explosions will persist.
Proposed Measures and Public Skepticism
Recent comments from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) hinted at new measures, including mandatory rest periods for tanker drivers and intensified inspections, but critics argue enforcement remains patchy at best.
As the smoke clears in Abuja and Lagos, the human toll is undeniable. Families have lost loved ones, businesses lie in ruins, and communities are traumatized.
Yet beyond the heartbreak, a critical question hangs in the air: will Nigeria finally reimagine how it moves its most dangerous cargo, or will it wait for the next inevitable blast?
On the evening of Tuesday, March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State during a nationwide broadcast, citing an ongoing political crisis, violations of the constitution, and escalating insecurity.
In his announcement, Tinubu ordered the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
To oversee the administration of the state, the President appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as Administrator, effective immediately. Tinubu emphasized that the move was crucial to restoring peace, order, and governance in Rivers, which had been grappling with political instability for several months.
He also noted that all attempts at mediation, including his own involvement and those of other concerned Nigerians, had been unsuccessful in resolving the crisis.
What Is State Of Emergency?
The president relied on Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to make the proclamation. The section interprets a state of emergency as a situation of national danger, disaster or terrorist attacks in which a government suspends normal constitutional procedures to regain control.
There has been several arguments as regards this state of emergency declared by the President especially using the Section 305 of the 1999 constitution and the suspension of Fubara, the Rivers state governor.
LN247 had a conversation on the morning show with Mr Zoe Tamunotonye, a political analyst from Rivers state, where he gave his thoughts regarding this issue;
“it is one thing to give an order from the law is another thing, the will of the people, rivers people have continued to hear respective of whatever judgment that comes from whatever courts, rivers people have continued to rally around behind the governor. So it’s after the frustration of the minister and the president not getting what they wanted from the script they have given the governor”
“Now take a look at the irony. The governor is an elected person just like the president and the kind of federal system we are running each of them has their constitutional powers and different jurisdiction. The president has powers over his appointed ministers. Now he has a problem in his hand between a minister he appointed in his cabinet and an elected governor who is governing a people”, He added.
He rather choose to punish or suspend the governor rather than dismissing the minister that is totally under his control”.
Lawyers Perspective
Concerning the constitutional bargain of an elected president to suspend an elected governor, Lawyer Justice Ojienoh on the morning show with LN247 gave his take on the matter;
“The Constitution provides for peace of the armed good government of the state. So when the governor fails or the government fails in one part of the state to ensure that that happens, then the president may want to exercise his powers on to section 305, as he did, to be able to restore normalcy. But the mood and manner in which the president went about restoring this version of normalcy is what I take as strong grounds against. And I say this because there are a number of states of emergencies that have been declared, especially in this fourth republic from 1999”
“I feel that it’s wrong. And the reason why I feel that that was wrong was because the people were elected, the governor was elected by the people of those states. And under no condition, there is no provision in the constitution and that’s to the extent which I think is unconstitutional.”
“There is no provision in the constitution where one elected person, also known as the president, will remove another elected person from office without the constitution endorsing it”.
Lawyer Nathaniel Ojobo also had a lot to say regarding this issue;
“there has to be a clear situation of at least threat to public peace. If not that public peace is actually threatened, or rather public peace has been breached, let there be such a situation as to allow for a clear threat to public peace. And if that has not been ascertained, we then have the power to declare that there is a clear threat to public peace in river state. And like I said, why it is neither here nor there. Personally, my sentiments are that we do not yet have a situation where public peace has been breached or there is a threat to the breach of public peace in river state.”
“the Constitution 305 sub 3 paragraph, uses the word clear. It has to be clear such that any reasonable person can do that. Is the whole of river state in turmoil? I mean, I hear comments about pipelines going off in certain locations.
the president was just been proactive because we know when we begin to see vandalism then it cannot be termed as a threat to public,
We had two pipeline explosions in River State a few days ago. Now, the president is relying on that. While I may not want to start making permutations, that may not be backed up with facts.
How and when or when did these explosions happen? When did they happen? We had the explosions. Of course, we have known that over time, generally, the South South has been a home for such things. But in the recent past, have there been any such explosions? Why is this one now happening at this time? He concluded.
Will The State Of Emergency Achieve Its Purpose?
The state of emergency and the appointment of a military administrator, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) are intended to address the immediate crises in Rivers State, their success will hinge on his ability to manage security, political, and legal challenges effectively.
“you cannot place something on nothing and expect it to stand. For me, the issue is not even discussing about what could be the position or what are the benefits of having an administrative officer. Because no matter how well intended, let’s even assume there was a good intention behind order because we all know the politics involved in all of this. But let’s even assume for a moment that there was a good intention behind this declaration of state of emergency in reverse states, behind the proposed suspension of the governor and the House of Representatives, you cannot find the right results after it was wrongly done”, Lawyer Nathaniel stated.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, labeling it unconstitutional and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement released on Tuesday and signed by its President, Afam Osigwe, SAN, the NBA emphasized that the President lacks the constitutional authority to remove an elected governor, deputy governor, or state lawmakers under emergency rule.
“The 1999 Constitution does not grant the President the power to remove an elected governor, deputy governor, or members of a state’s legislature under the guise of a state of emergency,” the NBA asserted.
The association stressed that Section 188 of the Constitution outlines clear procedures for removing a governor and deputy governor, while legislative dissolutions are governed by constitutional and electoral laws—none of which appear to have been followed in this case.
While acknowledging that Section 305 of the Constitution grants the President the power to declare a state of emergency, the NBA pointed out that strict conditions and procedural safeguards must be met to prevent abuse of power and infringement on democratic governance.
“A declaration of emergency does not automatically dissolve or suspend elected state governments,” the NBA stated, adding that such actions amount to an unconstitutional usurpation of power and a breach of Nigeria’s federal structure.
The association also noted that any emergency rule proclamation must be ratified by the National Assembly within a specific timeframe.
“Unless the National Assembly duly approves the proclamation, the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State remains constitutionally inchoate and ineffective,” the statement added.
The NBA urged the National Assembly to reject any attempt to ratify the removal of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and state lawmakers, warning that suspending elected officials under emergency rule sets a dangerous precedent that could threaten future democratic governments.
Calling on judicial bodies, civil society, and the international community to closely monitor the situation, the NBA reaffirmed its commitment to defending Nigeria’s democratic principles and the supremacy of the Constitution.
“Nigeria’s democracy must be protected at all costs, and the Constitution must be upheld as the supreme legal authority in all circumstances,” the statement concluded.
The Economic Community of West African States has raised concerns over the worsening food crisis in West Africa and the Sahel, emphasizing the need for swift action to prevent millions from experiencing extreme hunger.
During the third session of the ECOWAS Regional Food Security Reserve Management Committee held in Abuja on Tuesday, Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, highlighted the critical role of food reserves in addressing food insecurity across the region.
Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Marcus Ogunbiyi, Kyari acknowledged the proactive steps taken by ECOWAS leaders in 2013 to establish the Regional Food Reserve Initiative, describing it as a significant step towards bolstering food security.
“This meeting is taking place at a particularly worrying moment for our region,” he said.
As chair of the committee, Kyari identified conflict, economic instability, and climate change as major contributors to the deteriorating food situation.
Referring to findings from the December 2024 Cadre Harmonisé report, he stated, “Nearly 34.7 million people are in immediate need of food and nutritional assistance.”
To mitigate the crisis, he emphasized the importance of improved strategies, increased domestic funding, and better management of food reserves to reduce price fluctuations and strengthen food security.
Kyari noted, “The food security situation has worsened due to conflicts, economic instability, and the devastating impact of climate change.
“This calls for a concerted effort to boost food production, enhance strategic food storage, and stabilise market prices while strengthening the administration and management of the regional food reserve.”
He outlined progress made since the establishment of the reserve, such as improved capacity building, early warning systems, and emergency food aid initiatives.
Currently, the reserve holds over 74,000 tonnes of food stored across various locations for rapid deployment in crisis situations.
However, he underscored the need for better governance, improved operational procedures, and enhanced monitoring systems to ensure an efficient response to food emergencies.
He said, “It is crucial to ensure that the instruments and governance of the regional food security reserve are aligned with the challenges we face and our ambitions for the region. As such, we must strengthen the decision-making process and enhance monitoring of the reserve’s operations and interventions.”
Kyari urged committee members and stakeholders to engage actively in discussions on operational planning and emergency response measures, expressing optimism that the meeting would yield strategies to reinforce the region’s food security framework. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting regional food security efforts.
In her address, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, Massandjé Toure-Litse, cautioned that the food crisis could intensify if necessary interventions are not implemented.
“If appropriate measures are not taken, this figure could reach 47 million by the lean season from June to August 2025,” she cautioned.
Represented by Acting Executive Director of the Regional Agency for Agriculture and Food, Mohamed Zongo, Toure-Litse pointed to factors such as geopolitical tensions, armed conflicts, economic difficulties, and climate change as key triggers of the crisis.
She advocated for a more coordinated regional response while also laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability.
“It is imperative that our region enhances its immediate response mechanisms while consolidating the foundations of sustainable resilience,” she said.
She acknowledged that although the Management Committee had not convened frequently in recent years, the Bureau established in December 2019 had held three sessions since March 2023.
The current meeting, she explained, aimed to evaluate the Reserve’s activities over the past year and set objectives for 2025 to provide relief to communities most affected by food shortages, malnutrition, and pastoral crises.
“Our discussions and decisions must ensure transparency, efficiency, and fairness in managing the Reserve while adapting it to present and future challenges,” she added.
Toure-Litse also expressed appreciation for the continued backing from national and regional organizations, as well as international partners such as the French Development Agency, the World Bank, the European Union, and the Spanish Agency for International Cooperation.
Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas has been appointed as the Administrator of Rivers State following the state of emergency declared on March 18, 2025, by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Born on September 27, 1960, in Nko, Cross River State, Nigeria, Ibas has an extensive military background. He served as the 22nd Chief of the Naval Staff from 2015 to 2021 and held key positions such as Commanding Officer of the Nigerian Navy Underwater Warfare School and Chief of Logistics.
His distinguished career has earned him numerous honors, including the Silver Jubilee Medal and the prestigious Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR).
Now tasked with leading Rivers State during this critical period, Ibas is expected to leverage his experience to restore stability, security, and effective governance in the state.
In response to the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a state of emergency, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the State House of Assembly for an initial period of six months.
The decision, announced in a national broadcast on March 18, 2025, follows months of political instability and governance breakdown in the state. The President expressed deep concern over the failure of both the executive and legislative arms to work together, leading to a governance vacuum.
Key Issues Leading to the Emergency Declaration:
Demolition of the State House of Assembly: The governor allegedly destroyed the Assembly building in December 2023 and has failed to rebuild it.
Supreme Court Verdict: A recent ruling declared that the absence of a functional legislature renders the state government non-existent under the 1999 Constitution.
Security Concerns: Reports of militant activities, including pipeline vandalism, have escalated, with the governor allegedly failing to take action.
Breakdown of Governance: The Rivers State budget remains unapproved due to ongoing conflicts between the governor and the Assembly.
Appointment of an Administrator
To restore order, President Tinubu has appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the Administrator of Rivers State. While the judicial arm of the government remains functional, the administrator will oversee governance without making new laws, except for necessary regulations approved by the Federal Executive Council.
The declaration has been published in the Federal Gazette and forwarded to the National Assembly, in line with constitutional provisions.
Call for Peace and Stability
President Tinubu expressed hope that this intervention would restore peace, security, and democratic governance in Rivers State, urging all political stakeholders to uphold constitutional principles.
This move marks a significant political shift, with national attention now focused on the next steps for Rivers State’s governance.
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