Optasia faces anti-competition allegations in Nigeria as stakeholders urge government action over lending practices and market dominance concerns

Stakeholders in Nigeria’s fintech sector have accused digital lender Optasia of anti-competitive conduct and called on the Federal Government to intervene, citing concerns over market dominance and restricted access to critical infrastructure.

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The concerns, raised by a coalition of industry players, centre on claims that Optasia’s partnerships with telecommunications operators provide a significant advantage that limits fair competition.

Stakeholders alleged that the company has also sought court injunctions aimed at restraining local competitors, a move they argue could entrench monopolistic control.

Industry participants said such arrangements restrict access for smaller lenders that depend on similar telecom channels to reach customers.

They warned that the imbalance is gradually pushing emerging firms out of the market and weakening innovation across the ecosystem.

Analysts noted that sustained restrictions could lead to market concentration, reducing consumer choice and increasing borrowing costs.

One fintech expert described competition as essential to efficiency and fairness, warning that limited access harms the entire sector.

In a related development, Nairatime and Optasia are facing criticism over alleged breaches of lending guidelines issued by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission.

Consumer groups cited concerns including lack of transparency in loan terms, undisclosed charges, and questionable debt recovery practices.

Stakeholders further alleged that both firms have relied on legal mechanisms rather than regulatory engagement, raising concerns about compliance with established consumer protection standards.

Legal observers noted that the commission has strengthened oversight in recent years, requiring digital lenders to register and adhere strictly to its framework.

A civil society group has now petitioned the FCCPC to investigate and sanction the companies over alleged anti-competitive behaviour.

The group claimed that dominant partnerships and market positioning have been used to limit access for other operators.

The petition also raised concerns about the implications of legal actions that could shield companies from regulatory scrutiny.

The group described the development as troubling for market fairness and national economic sovereignty.

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The FCCPC has confirmed receipt of the petition but has not indicated whether a formal investigation has begun. Industry observers said the outcome could shape the regulatory landscape and determine how competition is enforced in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving digital finance sector.