The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has launched a toll-free helpline for residents to report fake, expired, adulterated and counterfeit products across the state.
The agency’s General Manager and Chief Executive Officer, Afolabi Solebo, announced the initiative in a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its Assistant Director, Public Affairs, Adesile Rufai.
Solebo urged residents to “tell it to LASCOPA” by reporting consumer-related violations through the toll-free number 080 0005 2726.
According to him, the helpline will provide residents with a direct channel to report violations, seek guidance and enable the agency to take prompt enforcement action.
Complaints can also be submitted through the agency’s email, lasgcopa@gmail.com, as well as its Facebook, Instagram and X platforms, all under the handle @lascopa.
Solebo, however, advised residents not to rely solely on social media complaints, stressing that reports should be supported with verifiable evidence to facilitate investigation and enforcement.
Such evidence, he said, could include receipts, invoices, photographs or videos, product labels, proof of payment, and screenshots of transactions, advertisements or conversations with sellers.
The helpline covers complaints involving fake and counterfeit products, expired or adulterated goods, defective products, misleading advertisements and unfair business practices.
Residents can also report poor services, online shopping disputes and other suspected violations of consumer rights through the channel.
Solebo urged consumers to verify product details, prices, sellers and terms and conditions before making payments, particularly when shopping online.
He also advised residents to check product labels for manufacturers’ details, manufacturing and expiry dates, batch numbers, ingredients and usage instructions before purchasing goods.
“Timely, credible complaints help us detect violations and take enforcement action,” he said, stressing that consumer protection was a shared responsibility among government, businesses and consumers.
Solebo urged Lagos residents to remain vigilant and report suspected violations promptly.
“If you see it, question it. If you suspect it, report it. Tell it to LASCOPA,” he said.