Stop The Monopoly : Nigerian House Gose Hot On DSTV

A female member of the House of Representatives, from Adamawa State, Hajiya Aishatu Dahiru Ahmed yesterday said the proposed amendment to National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) Act will stop exploitation of radio listeners and television viewers in the country.

According to Ahmed, the amendment will help to check monopoly of cable and pay TV by some multinational firms like DSTV, Reality TV and others laying claim to exclusive rights on some programmes.

She further expressed regrets that many Nigerians are being denied access to important programmes by some cable or pay TV stations in violation of Section 16(1b and 2c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Hajiya Ahmed, who spoke in defence of the bill at the House plenary, asked the House to amend the NBC Act to protect the poor.

Although the bill scaled second reading, the female lawmaker cited Africa and Kenya which have amended their broadcasting laws for cheaper tariff.

Hajiya Ahmed said, “The decree which is now an Act of the National Assembly was established on the foundation of Section 16 (1b) and (2c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“Unfortunately, this commendable effort has been truncated by a new form of monopoly that threatens the social, political and economic needs of the Nigerian people.

“The policy which is referred to as premium contents/programmes by broadcasting companies with more financial muscles and influence is a new form of monopoly where these companies are given exclusive right to broadcast programmes with high demand while other operators are excluded.

“This runs contrary to the vision and mission of establishing the commission because this monopoly allows the operator to increase subscription cost at will and give you what they feel like giving because one does not have a choice.

“DSTV through its local partner Multichoice in Nigeria has the exclusive right to broadcast the English Premier League.

National Geographic, major sporting tournaments, discovery, Reality TV and a host of other important programmes.

DSTV ensure that you pay full subscription before you have access to important programmes which runs contrary to section 16 (1b and 2c) of the 1999 Constitution.”

She said some sections of the NBC Act could stifle competition and shut out the poor from good programmes which could shape national ethos.

Source: Leadership