WASPAN challenges FCCPC’s digital lending powers at Court of Appeal

The Wireless Application Service Providers Association of Nigeria (WASPAN) is challenging the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission's (FCCPC) authority over digital lending. WASPAN has appealed a Federal High Court decision that upheld the FCCPC's power to regulate the sector.

In its appeal, filed after the lower court dismissed its suit, WASPAN argues the FCCPC misinterpreted the law and overstepped its bounds. The association contends that the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) is the designated sector regulator with the statutory responsibility for competition and consumer protection in telecommunications.

WASPAN is asking the Court of Appeal to set aside the lower court's judgment and grant its original request. It also seeks an injunction to halt the FCCPC's enforcement of its Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending (DEON) Regulations while the appeal is pending. The association believes the FCCPC cannot regulate matters within the telecommunications sector, which it argues falls under the NCC's purview.