The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) in Nigeria has cautioned that it will contact Google to permanently delete digital money lending apps that harass and slander customers from its Play Store. The announcement was made by Babatunde Irukera, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FCCPC, during an interview on Tuesday, 11th July.
Irukera stated that while these digital lenders are welcome to conduct business in the country, those who harass their customers will face immediate action. He declared, “Our concern is if these lenders we’ve approved are still engaging in such behavior, even if it occurs only once, we will permanently remove them from the Google Play Store. As we discover them, we will take legal action.”
“There are instances where they can make mistakes and be given a second chance, but when it comes to harassing consumers or spreading defamatory messages, there will be no second chances,” he added.
Addressing the issue of debt recovery, Irukera shared his thoughts, saying, “Most of the individuals who fail to repay these loans are habitual borrowers. Therefore, if you struggle to fulfill your obligations, you should not be granted the opportunity to borrow again.”
“However, individuals who genuinely face difficulties and have failed to make a payment, or those who do not default on their payments, should not be subjected to the inconvenience, aggravation, and frustration caused by these defamatory messages,” he concluded.
