Abuja: The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has clarified its stance regarding the regulation of the airtime market, emphasizing that its involvement in digital and non-traditional lending is confined to its regulatory duties. This position falls under the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations 2025 (DEON Regulations).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the FCCPC announced the suspension of the enforcement of DEON regulations due to an ongoing court case. A statement by Mr. Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at FCCPC, highlighted that the suspension followed an ex-parte order from the Federal High Court in Lagos. The case, identified as Suit No. FHC/L/CS/760/2026, was initiated by the Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN).
Mr. Ijagwu emphasized that, as a law-abiding institution, the FCCPC is obliged to adhere to the court’s directive, halting the regulation’s enforcement until the court reaches a decision on the substantive case. The hearing is scheduled for July 20.
The Commission addressed recent media allegations claiming its involvement in submitting names of local fintech companies to the Presidency, allegedly to restrict capital flight. Mr. Ijagwu refuted these claims, reiterating the FCCPC’s commitment to lawful processes and compliance with court orders.
The DEON regulations aim to address detrimental practices such as predatory loan app operations, data privacy violations, and unethical debt collection methods.