Minister of Communication, Digital Technology and Innovations, Sam George, has issued a strong warning to Ghanaians using pirated DSTV decoders from Nigeria, stressing that the practice deprives Ghana of vital tax revenue and undermines national development.
Speaking at a media briefing on Monday September 29, he indicated that, “you don’t expect the Nigerian government to fix your roads or give you healthcare. You expect the John Mahama government to do that for you. But you’re paying taxes to a foreign government.”
Sam George likened the DSTV Nigerian subscription situation to working for Coca-Cola and expecting a salary from Pepsi, urging citizens to reflect on the damage being done to Ghana’s economy and creative industry.
“For every legitimate DSTV box in Ghana, we’ve deactivated five from Nigeria. If this doesn’t worry you, then your citizenship should be revoked,” he said.
George announced that a multi-agency committee will work with MultiChoice to intensify enforcement against illegal decoders.
“We will come after every ghost box. We will deactivate them and block them.”
With new DSTV pricing set to take effect on October 1, offering up to 50% more value for Ghanaian subscribers, the Minister said there is now “no excuse” not to support the local service.
“Dust off your Ghanaian box and reconnect,” he urged. “I just hope MultiChoice will have enough staff to handle the calls.”
