The Coalition of Northern Groups, CNG, has called on the Nigerian Broadcasting Commission, NBC, to make MultiChoice act on an agreement entered into over non inclusion of Northern-based television stations on the DSTV platform.
The request is contained in a letter dated 2nd September, 2021 and addressed to the Director General of the Commission through the Director, Investigation & Enforcement, Gloria Makinde and signed by the spokesperson of the groups, a copy of which was made available to ASHENEWS on Thursday.
The letter captioned “Follow up on our meeting with you and officials of MultiChoice Nigeria”, recalled details of the agreement but regretted that “five months afterwards, there has not been any attempt by MultiChoice to keep their part of the agreement.”
Read the letter below:
Recall that following an intervention by the Coalition of Northern Groups CNG via a letter of complaint dated January 10, 2021, over the non inclusion of Northern based television stations on the DSTV platform, you arranged a meeting with the DSTV, CNG and your office on March 18, 2021 via your letter referenced NBC/I & E/COMP/VOL V/2021.
Recall again that at the meeting which was chaired by the Director General, it was amicably agreed that MultiChoice would change its position and consider carrying northern based television stations that could meet the laid down standards.
Recall also that the CNG was asked to submit a list of five qualified television stations from the North for consideration by the MultiChoice which was done immediately.
The CNG on its part, was asked to stay action on a planned enforcement of total boycott of the DSTV by consumers all over the 19 northern states. This too was complied with.
We regret however, to note that five months afterwards, there has not been any attempt by MultiChoice to keep their part of the agreement.
The CNG by this, wishes to remind you to act to get MultiChoice keep its obligation agreed to at that meeting before considering the next line of action which may not preclude the enforcement of a regionwide boycott.
While we await an update on the situation from you on the matter Sir, we remain, as usual, faithful in your commitment.
