The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has urged residents to speak up against consumer rights violations by promptly reporting fake, expired and adulterated products, misleading advertisements, poor services and other unfair business practices.
The agency is encouraging consumers to “Tell it to LASCOPA” through its toll-free consumer helpline, 080 0005 2726, or via email at lasgcopa@gmail.com. Complaints can also be submitted through its social media platforms on Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), all under the handle @lasgcopa.
The General Manager/Chief Executive Officer of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, Esq., said the toll-free line was introduced to provide consumers with a direct and accessible channel to report violations, seek guidance and obtain timely intervention from the agency.
He urged residents not to remain silent when they encounter questionable products or services, stressing that formal complaints to LASCOPA were more effective for investigation and enforcement than simply raising concerns on social media.
According to him, while social media can help draw attention to consumer-related issues, complaints must be supported with verifiable evidence to enable the agency to investigate and take appropriate action.
He advised consumers to preserve relevant documents and records, including receipts, invoices, photographs or videos, product labels, proof of payment, and screenshots of transactions, advertisements or conversations with sellers.
Through the helpline, consumers can report concerns involving fake and counterfeit products, expired or adulterated goods, defective products, misleading advertisements, unfair business practices, poor services, online shopping disputes and other suspected consumer protection violations.
Solebo also advised consumers to exercise greater caution before making purchases, particularly online. He urged residents to verify product details, prices, sellers and terms of transactions before making payments.
Consumers, he added, should pay close attention to product labels and confirm key information such as the manufacturer’s details, manufacturing and expiry dates, batch numbers, ingredients and usage instructions.
“Timely, credible complaints help us detect violations and take enforcement action. Consumer protection is a shared responsibility — government, businesses and consumers,” Solebo said.
He called on Lagos residents to remain vigilant and play an active role in promoting a fairer and safer marketplace.
“If you see it, question it. If you suspect it, report it. Tell it to LASCOPA,” he urged.
