… Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting Consumer Rights and Promoting Fair Business Practices
The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), has called on residents to work with the Agency in eliminating unfair business practices, particularly the use of “No Return, No Refund, No Replacement” and “No Cancellation After Payment” policies that violate consumers’ legal rights.
The General Manager/Chief Executive Officer of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, Esq., stated that while businesses are free to set reasonable terms and conditions, such policies cannot override consumer rights guaranteed under existing consumer protection laws, especially where products are defective, unsafe, falsely represented, or unsuitable for the purpose communicated before purchase.
Solebo stressed that consumers should never be forced to accept faulty goods or poor services simply because a business displays a disclaimer. He noted that any policy intended to deny consumers their lawful rights is unfair, misleading, and unenforceable.
He explained that the Lagos State Government is partnering with consumers to tackle unfair trade practices, including indiscriminate “No Return, No Refund, No Replacement” and “No Cancellation After Part or Full Payment” policies. He encouraged residents to understand their rights and report violations to LASCOPA for swift intervention.
According to him, consumers are entitled to appropriate remedies where goods or services are defective, unsafe, misrepresented, or fail to meet the purpose for which they were purchased, provided they comply with the agreed terms of purchase and relevant legal provisions.
Solebo also urged event centres, hotels, reservation service providers, and other businesses to adopt transparent, fair, and customer-friendly policies on returns, refunds, replacements, and cancellations to strengthen public trust and confidence in the marketplace.
The Agency advised consumers to inspect goods before purchase whenever possible, retain receipts and other proof of payment, and promptly report cases involving deceptive business practices, defective products, or the denial of legitimate consumer rights.
LASCOPA reaffirmed its commitment to building a fair, safe, and competitive marketplace where both consumers and businesses can thrive, in line with the Lagos State Government’s vision of driving sustainable economic growth and boosting consumer confidence.
The Agency also reiterated its resolve to enforce all relevant consumer protection laws while encouraging residents to support the Government’s efforts in promoting responsible business practices, regulatory compliance, and a safer consumer environment across Lagos State.
Residents with complaints or enquiries are advised to contact the Office of the General Manager/CEO, Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, via lasgcopa@gmail.com or the toll-free line 080 0005 2726 for prompt assistance.