The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) activity reports of complaints and mediation for last quarter of year 2019 (October-December 2019), show that fast moving consumer goods (FMCGs) classified under the manufacturing sector, electronics, discos (IKEDC, EKEDP), automobiles, online marketing (Jumia, konga) top consumers’ complaints under the period.
These complaints cut across critical sectors of the economy, especially the chemical and Agro-Allied sectors, pharmaceuticals, property, hospitality and beverages. While the total number of complaints recorded under the period were put at 73. The numbers of complaints resolved are 65, while four cases are ongoing, and another four of the complaints received by the agency are currently being pursued in court.
Similarly, LASCOPA assisted consumers in Lagos to recover over N25 million as rewards and compensation from different transactions within the period under review. This was disclosed during a public enlightenment campaign and sensitisation held recently in Ikorodu and Badagry, aimed at educating consumers on their rights towards preventing the marketing of hazardous products in Lagos.
Kemi Olugbode, the general manager of LASCOPA said consumers have rights which must not only be promoted but protected from any form of unfair trade practices. She noted that the sensitisation tagged, ‘Know Your Rights’ was initiated by the state government to ensure that consumers in Lagos State are educated on their rights to enable them seek redress.
Olugbode further stated that since commencement of duty in Match 2018, LASCOPA has been able to successfully resolve over 80 percent of the various complaints received, mostly through mediation.
However, in ensuring that consumers’ complaints are swiftly addressed, there is a need for the agency to maintain its presence in all local government and local council development area of the state. This she said will ensure rights of consumers, especially at the grassroots are well protected.
Olugbode urged the stakeholders to collaborate with the present administration by providing office space for the agency to thrive in their respective locality. She equally charged Lagosians to take advantage of the existence of LASCOPA to lodge any complaint they might have on infringement of their rights as consumers of goods and services, reiterating that the services of the agency are free.
Olusegun Onibude, chairman of Badagry Local Government who was represented by Andrew Akotome Gbetogo, the vice chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, said that the presence of LASCOPA in the area will not only enhance development; it will equally ensure that the rights of the people of Badagry are promoted and protected.
SEYI JOHN SALAU
