The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency has opened a toll-free complaint line for residents to report fake, expired and adulterated products, misleading advertisements, defective goods, poor services and other consumer-related violations.
The agency’s General Manager and Chief Executive Officer, Afolabi Solebo, announced the development in a statement obtained by journalists on Wednesday, urging residents to make formal reports through the new channel instead of relying mainly on complaints posted on social media.
Residents can reach the agency through the toll-free number 080 0005 2726. Complaints can also be submitted via email at lasgcopa@gmail.com or through LASCOPA’s social media platforms using the handle @lascopa.
According to the agency, the new reporting channels will enable consumers to obtain guidance and alert the state regulator to suspected breaches, particularly where products or services could affect their health, safety or financial interests.
Solebo said complainants should provide evidence that can be verified to support investigations and possible enforcement action.
He identified receipts, invoices, photographs, videos, product labels, proof of payment and screenshots of transactions, advertisements or conversations with vendors as some of the documents and materials consumers could submit with their complaints.
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The agency said it would receive reports involving counterfeit and fake products, expired or adulterated goods, defective items, deceptive advertisements, unfair business practices, poor service delivery and disputes linked to online purchases.
Solebo also encouraged Lagos residents to exercise caution when buying goods or paying for services, especially through online platforms. He advised consumers to confirm the identity of sellers, prices and transaction terms before making payments.
He further urged buyers to inspect product labels and confirm details such as the manufacturer’s information, production and expiry dates, batch numbers, ingredients and instructions for use before purchasing.
The latest move follows an earlier warning issued by LASCOPA in August over the alleged circulation of expired and near-expired products in Lagos with falsified production and expiry dates.
At the time, the agency said its enforcement teams had inspected businesses across the state and discovered questionable products, suspicious date coding and damaged packaging.
Solebo said the new complaint mechanism would strengthen the agency’s ability to identify violations and respond with appropriate enforcement measures.
“Timely, credible complaints help us detect violations and take enforcement action. Consumer protection is a shared responsibility, government, businesses and consumers,” he said.