Report fake, expired products via toll-free line, Lagos agency tells residents

The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency has introduced a toll-free helpline, urging residents to report fake, expired, adulterated and counterfeit products promptly.

The General Manager/Chief Executive Officer, LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, made the call in a statement issued by the agency on Tuesday in Lagos.

The statement was signed by the agency’s Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Adesile Rufai.

He urged residents to “tell it to LASCOPA” by reporting consumer-related violations through the agency’s toll-free consumer helpline – 080 0005 2726.

He said the toll-free line provided consumers with a direct and accessible channel to report violations, seek guidance and get timely action from the agency.

Solebo also said complaints could also be made through the agency’s email, [email protected], and its social media handles on Facebook, Instagram and X (Twitter), all @lascopa.

The LASCOPA boss urged residents not to remain silent when confronted with consumer-related violations, stressing the need to formally report such cases to LASCOPA rather than relying solely on social media.

He said that while social media platforms could help raise awareness about consumer complaints, reports to the agency should be supported with verifiable evidence to facilitate investigation and enforcement.

According to him, such evidence should include receipts, invoices, photographs or videos, product labels, proof of payment, as well as screenshots of transactions, advertisements or conversations with sellers.

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The LASCOPA boss further said the helpline could be used to report concerns involving fake and counterfeit products, expired or adulterated goods, defective products, misleading advertisements and unfair business practices.

He added that consumers could also report poor services, online shopping disputes and other suspected consumer protection violations.

Solebo advised consumers to verify product details, prices, sellers and terms and conditions before making payments, particularly when purchasing goods and services online.

He urged residents to carefully examine product labels and confirm information such as the manufacturer’s details, manufacturing and expiry dates, batch numbers, ingredients and usage instructions before purchasing products.

“Timely, credible complaints help us detect violations and take enforcement action.

“Consumer protection is a shared responsibility, government, businesses and consumers,” he said.

Solebo called on Lagos residents to remain vigilant and actively participate in efforts to safeguard the marketplace from practices capable of undermining consumers’ rights and safety.

He said, “If you see it, question it. If you suspect it, report it. Tell it to LASCOPA.”