Lagos: The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has raised concerns over alleged manipulation of production and expiry dates on expired and near-expired products sold across markets and retail outlets. The General Manager/Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Mr. Afolabi Solebo, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos. Solebo said that the trend posed serious risks to public health. He noted that devices and chemicals used to erase and reprint product dates were reportedly being circulated online, and their misuse could enable unscrupulous traders to reintroduce unsafe products into the market.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, LASCOPA enforcement teams have conducted inspections across all local government areas and local council development areas of the state. During the exercise, cases of suspicious date coding, damaged packaging, and questionable products were identified. The LASCOPA boss warned that offenders would face strict sanctions, including seizure of products, closure of business premises, and prosecution in accordance with the law. He urged consumers to remain vigilant by carefully inspecting product labels for smudged or altered dates, compromised packaging, and other inconsistencies.
Solebo also advised Lagos residents to patronize only trusted vendors and retain purchase receipts as proof of transactions. He called on manufacturers to adopt clear and standardized labeling practices, particularly with respect to batch numbers and expiry information, to curb the growing menace. The general manager reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to sustained monitoring and enforcement activities to safeguard consumer rights and public health. He encouraged Lagos residents to report suspicious products through LASCOPA’s dedicated channels, including telephone lines, email, official social media platforms, or by visiting its office in Ikeja.
Solebo reiterated the need for collective responsibility in tackling the issue. He said that consumer safety remained a shared responsibility. He advised residents to be vigilant, verify products before buying, and promptly report any suspected violations.