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FCCPC denies banning airtime borrowing, blames operators for service disruptions
via Punch Nigeria4 min read
The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission FCCPC has refuted claims that it banned airtime borrowing and data advance services in Nigeria, labeling such reports as false and misleading. This clarification follows public concern sparked by social media posts and media reports suggesting the Commission had halted telecom credit services. Airtel and MTN Nigeria had announced temporary suspensions of their airtime and data credit services. The FCCPC, through its Director of Corporate Affairs, Ondaje Ijagwu, stated that no such directive was issued and consumers can still access lawful telecom value-added services. The Commission attributed service disruptions to certain operators' failure to comply with its Consumer Lending Regulations, introduced in July 2025. These regulations were developed due to numerous consumer complaints regarding opaque charges, unexplained deductions, aggressive recovery practices, and inadequate accountability in digital lending and advance services. The framework aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and fair competition by mandating proper registration, responsible lending, clear disclosure of fees, accessible complaint channels, and data protection. The FCCPC also found that some operators engaged in anti-competitive practices, including exclusionary arrangements with third-party service providers, in violation of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act, 2018. Despite granting operators an initial 90-day compliance
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Nana Otedola, mother of actress Temi Otedola, expressed surprise upon learning that her daughter and singer Oluwatosin Ajibade, known as Mr Eazi, were expecting their first child shortly after their wedding. Speaking on the couple's How Far podcast, Nana initially anticipated that the newlyweds would enjoy a few years of married life before starting a family. Temi reminded her mother that she and Mr Eazi had already dated for five years before marrying. Nana stated that she has since learned not to be presumptuous about the couple's decisions. She also believes that Temi and Mr Eazi complement each other well. Temi and Mr Eazi announced their pregnancy in May, approximately nine months after their private wedding in Reykjav铆k, Iceland. The couple, who got engaged in April 2022 after four years of dating, married in August 2025 at Hallgr铆mskirkja Church in Reykjav铆k. Temi cited Mr Eazi being her best friend as the reason for their marriage, while Mr Eazi noted that Temi helped him understand genuine love and valued his time and effort over material gifts.
Paul University, Awka, Anambra State, has suspended Ven. Cornelius Eze, an Anglican priest and Practical Biology Technologist, following allegations of serious sexual misconduct involving him and a female student. The university's management announced the indefinite suspension on July 17, 2026, stating it is a preliminary administrative measure pending the outcome of internal disciplinary processes and investigations by law enforcement agencies. The allegations were brought to the university's attention on July 14, 2026, prompting immediate intervention and involvement of security agencies to prevent a breakdown of order among students. The university emphasized its commitment to integrity and a safe learning environment, stating it does not condone sexual harassment or misconduct and will deal with any culpable individuals according to due process. The institution also noted that counseling and therapeutic support are being provided to the affected student and other community members, urging the public to avoid speculation.
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