LASCOPA cautions residents onfinancial exploitation, unsafe practices
By Tajudeen Adebanjo The Lagos State Government, through the Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), has advised Lagosians to exercise caution and vigilance in their transactions to avoid exploitation and unsafe practices.
By Tajudeen Adebanjo
The Lagos State Government, through the Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), has advised Lagosians to exercise caution and vigilance in their transactions to avoid exploitation and unsafe practices.
A statement by its General Manager, Afolabi Solebo, urged Lagosians to be mindful of the increased commercial activities, which often come with risks such as price inflation, sale of substandard, expired or hazardous products, and misleading promotional offers.
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The General Manager emphasised the importance of verifying product quality and authenticity before purchase, such as checking expiry dates, especially on food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals, avoiding patronage from unregistered or suspicious vendors, as well as demanding receipts and having proper documentation for all transactions.
He also warned service providers and traders against engaging in unfair trade practices or unscrupulous exploitation of consumers, stressing that the Agency will intensify monitoring and enforcement operations across markets, shopping centres, and recreational venues during the Easter period.
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Solebo, therefore, encouraged residents to report any case of consumer rights violations or unscrupulous trade practices, as well as unethical conduct by online vendors through the agency’s official communication channels for prompt intervention.
He also advised that all online transactions should have their payment made at the point of delivery, and the vendor must have offices within the State.
Solebo stated that, truly, consumers have fundamental rights; they also have responsibilities such as being responsible, being careful while making personal decisions, being enlightened, being watchful and voicing out as well as protecting their environment.
The General Manager reaffirmed LASCOPA’s commitment to protecting Lagosian consumers and ensuring a fair marketplace, and wished all Lagosians a safe, peaceful and enjoyable Easter celebration.
