Nigeria’s Data Protection Commission (NDPC) has fined MultiChoice Nigeria Limited ₦766 million (about $501,340) for violating the country’s data privacy laws. The pay-TV operator runs DStv and GOtv, two of the most popular television services in Nigeria.
Babatunde Bamigboye, Head of Legal at NDPC, said the commission began investigating MultiChoice a year ago after reports emerged of potential breaches. These included privacy violations affecting subscribers and their contacts, as well as the unauthorized transfer of personal data across borders.
“MultiChoice processes subscriber data in a way that is intrusive, unfair, unnecessary, and disproportionate,” Bamigboye said on Sunday.
MultiChoice’s Compliance Efforts Fell Short
The NDPC instructed the company to take corrective steps. However, Bamigboye noted that MultiChoice failed to meet the required standards. He added that the company’s actions continue to raise serious data protection concerns.
No Comment from MultiChoice Yet
As of Monday, MultiChoice had not issued a public statement, and attempts to reach them were unsuccessful. Over the past two years, the company has clashed with Nigerian regulators over price hikes and tax-related issues.
The new penalty adds to growing tensions between MultiChoice and government agencies. The NDPC says it remains committed to protecting the rights of Nigerian citizens and ensuring that companies operating in the country comply with data privacy standards.
Quick Facts:
Company involved: MultiChoice Nigeria (DStv and GOtv operator)
Fine amount: ₦766 million (~$501,340)
Exchange rate: $1 = ₦1,528.39
Regulatory body: Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC)
Reason for fine: Intrusive and unauthorized processing and transfer of personal data
