The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has warned manufacturers, retailers and service providers across the state to comply with consumer protection laws or face sanctions, including fines, suspension of operations, prosecution and the possible sealing of their premises.
The agency’s General Manager and Chief Executive Officer, Afolabi Solebo, Esq., issued the warning while addressing journalists at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport upon his return from the 2026 International Bar Association Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Solebo said LASCOPA would begin sanctioning businesses that deliberately fail to attend scheduled mediation sessions over legitimate consumer complaints. He added that affected premises could be sealed where authorised by law.
He identified unfair trade practices, misleading advertisements, deceptive pricing, hidden charges, poor service delivery, and the production or sale of substandard, counterfeit or unsafe products as offences that could attract regulatory action.
According to him, businesses found violating the Lagos State Consumer Protection Law 2025 (as amended) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2018 would face applicable penalties, including enforcement orders and other legal measures.
The LASCOPA chief also urged consumers with unresolved complaints to remain patient, explaining that delays often occur when businesses disregard mediation invitations. He advised consumers to keep receipts, invoices, warranties and other relevant documents to support their complaints.
Solebo reaffirmed Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to protecting consumer rights and creating a fair business environment in Lagos State.
He stressed that consumer protection is a shared responsibility, urging businesses and consumers to work together towards a transparent, accountable and consumer-friendly marketplace.