You took a loan—maybe out of desperation—and now the loan app is calling your boss, messaging your contacts, and publicly shaming you.
So you’re asking:
Should I pay back a loan app if I’ve been harassed?
This is one of the most confusing and emotional questions many Nigerians are silently battling with.
Let’s unpack this together—ethically, mentally, and legally.
⚖️ 1. You Have a Right to Be Treated With Dignity
First, it’s okay to feel conflicted.
- Yes, you borrowed.
- But no, that doesn’t give them the right to harass, defame, or blackmail you.
Harassment from loan apps isn’t just unprofessional—in most cases, it’s illegal.
“Even a debtor is still protected by law.”
👉 Read: The Legal Status of Loan Apps in Nigeria—Licensed vs Fake
💥 2. Most Harassing Loan Apps Are Illegal
Here’s the hard truth: many of the apps that harass users are not registered with the FCCPC or CBN. They charge 2–5% daily interest, access your contacts without consent, and use blackmail tactics.
This makes their lending unethical and unenforceable in many legal systems.
So if you’ve been harassed:
- The app may not even be legally allowed to operate
- You have the right to stop repaying, especially if the harassment is severe
👉 Read: Why You’ll Never Finish Paying Off Loan Apps
💭 3. Consider the Emotional & Mental Cost
Every call, SMS, and threat adds to your anxiety, fear, and shame.
- You’re afraid to pick up your phone
- Your loved ones are being messaged
- You can’t think straight anymore
At some point, it’s not just about money.
It’s about protecting your mind.
You cannot pay your way out of emotional abuse.
👉 Read: The Emotional Toll of Loan App Harassment—and How to Heal
🤝 4. What Are Your Options?
If you’re in this situation, you have three realistic options:
✅ Option 1: Stop Paying and Report
If the app has broken the law (contact harassment, defamation), you can:
- Uninstall the app
- Block their lines
- Report them to FCCPC, NITDA, Google
- Join a support group and rebuild your finances
👉 How to Report a Loan App (FCCPC, NITDA, Google)
✅ Option 2: Pay Only Licensed Lenders
If the app is FCCPC-approved and hasn’t harassed you:
- You may choose to pay back if your income allows
- Repay on your terms—not under fear
- Negotiate directly without giving in to threats
👉 Check the List of Legal Loan Apps Here
✅ Option 3: Pay a Little, Then Stop
If you already paid but they continue harassing you:
- Stop payment
- Save your peace of mind
- Focus on recovery
Remember: even paying regularly doesn’t stop their threats.
🧘♀️ 5. What About the Guilt?
Many people feel guilty about not paying.
But guilt is not the same as being wrong.
If they broke the law, the relationship is already unethical.
You’re not “bad” for walking away from an abusive lender. You’re choosing your life.
👉 Recovery Guide: How to Rebuild After Escaping Loan Apps
🔁 So… Should You Pay?
👉 If they harassed you?
NO. They forfeited their right to repayment through abuse.
👉 If they didn’t harass you and are FCCPC-registered?
Maybe. If you can afford it and want to maintain ethical integrity.
👉 If you’re unsure?
Stop temporarily, seek help, and report them. Your safety comes first.