The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has issued a notice guiding Nigerians on how to report loan apps that harass their customers.

Many Nigerians rely on online loan apps for quick financial assistance.

However, when borrowers fail to repay on time, some of these lenders resort to harassment, including sending embarrassing messages—often with photos — to their contacts.

In April 2024, BBC Pidgin reported that this practice had led to serious problems, with some victims even losing their jobs due to public shame and humiliation.

In May 2024, PUNCH Online reported that the FCCPC was taking steps to block loan apps engaging in such harassment.

On Friday, the FCCPC reiterated its commitment to protecting consumers by providing a guide on how to report these lenders.

“Are you being harassed by loan apps or unfair businesses?

“No consumer should live in fear! The FCCPC is here for you, ensuring your rights are protected and businesses play fair,” the message posted on X read.

How to report harassing loan apps:

1. Email FCCPC: Send your complaint to contact@fccpc.gov.ng.
2. Social Media: Send a direct message to FCCPC on X.
3. To report on the FCCPC website, log on to http://fccpc.gov.ng
4. Click on Menu
5. Click on File a Complaint
6. Enter Date, Name (in Complaint Reported By), Contact Address, Mobile Number, Email
7. Enter the name of loan app in ‘Complaint reported Against’, the Contact Address of Loan Apps, Phone Numbers, Email
8. In ‘Cost of Purchase’, enter the loan amount.
9. Then enter the Receipt Number (of Product/Service) Account Number/ Meter Number (Where Applicable)
10. Enter Warranty details if relevant.
11. Briefly state your complaint in the designated box.
12. In the Prayers section, specify your request for redress.
13. There is also an option to “Upload Files (Files to be uploaded should be saved with the same name you filled in the ”complaint reported by” section otherwise, it wouldn’t be attended to).”
14. You can then submit. (The PUNCH)