The Lagos State Government has advised consumers to report cases of unfair treatment, exploitation, and unethical business practices to appropriate regulatory agencies rather than approaching the police in the first instance.

This guidance was given by the General Manager of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), Afolabi Solebo, during a mediation session at the agency’s Ikeja office.

Solebo explained that consumer protection agencies are specifically established to safeguard the rights and interests of consumers while promoting fair and ethical practices across the marketplace.

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He listed common issues that should be reported to regulators to include the sale of fake, substandard, hazardous, or expired products; false advertising and deceptive practices; overpricing and hidden charges; unfulfilled promotions; poor service delivery; and refusal to honour warranties or agreements.

The LASCOPA boss also urged consumers to retain receipts, invoices, warranties, and other relevant documentation as evidence to support their complaints and ensure prompt resolution.

Reaffirming government’s commitment to consumer protection, Solebo encouraged residents to channel complaints through LASCOPA or the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) for investigation and redress.

He further appealed to the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies to redirect consumer-related complaints to designated regulatory bodies, while also advising legal practitioners to explore administrative remedies before initiating court actions.

The Lagos State Government reiterated the importance of consumer awareness, urging residents to understand their rights and responsibilities and to report violations through official platforms and hotlines provided by relevant agencies.