The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has launched a toll-free helpline to encourage residents to report counterfeit, expired, and adulterated products. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between consumers and justice, making it easier for citizens to expose unscrupulous merchants. The hotline, 080 0005 2726, allows residents to report consumer-related violations, seek guidance, and trigger enforcement action.
LASCOPA's General Manager and Chief Executive Officer, Afolabi Solebo, made the announcement in a statement released on October 6, 2026. Solebo urged the public to defend their rights, emphasizing the importance of questioning and reporting suspicious products. The agency's Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Adesile Rufai, signed the press statement. The hotline is part of LASCOPA's efforts to enhance consumer protection in Lagos.
The toll-free line eliminates financial barriers for residents, enabling them to report violations without incurring airtime costs. In addition to the hotline, LASCOPA has expanded its digital reach, allowing consumers to lodge complaints via email or social media handles. The agency's verified social media handles on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) operate under the uniform handle @lascopa.
Solebo warned residents against relying solely on public outcries or social media call-outs to address grievances. He emphasized that formal legal complaints are necessary to build foolproof cases and execute enforcement or arrests against offending merchants. To support investigations, the public is required to provide verifiable evidence, including receipts, invoices, photographs, and product labels.
The agency handles complaints ranging from defective merchandise and misleading advertisements to online retail fraud and unfair trade practices. Solebo advised the public to remain vigilant, particularly when navigating digital commerce. He emphasized the importance of verifying seller credentials, product details, and return policies before making electronic payments.
Consumers are encouraged to scrutinize labels for manufacturing dates, batch numbers, and NAFDAC registration numbers. Timely and credible complaints help LASCOPA detect violations early. The agency's efforts aim to promote a shared responsibility between government, businesses, and the public in consumer protection.
The LASCOPA chief concluded by emphasizing that consumer protection is a collective responsibility. The agency's initiatives aim to empower residents to take an active role in reporting counterfeit and expired goods, ultimately enhancing consumer protection in Lagos.
Key points
- LASCOPA launches toll-free hotline 080 0005 2726 for reporting counterfeit goods.
- The agency expands digital reach through email and social media handles.
- Residents are encouraged to provide verifiable evidence to support investigations.
