The General Manager of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), Mr. Afolabi Solebo, has revealed that approximately 80 per cent of hazardous products in circulation are a result of poor handling and improper storage.
Solebo made this known in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lagos by the agency’s Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Rufai Adesile.
He called on manufacturers and distributors to intensify public sensitisation campaigns on proper product handling and storage practices to maintain quality and ensure consumer safety.
The LASCOPA boss also urged consumers to remain vigilant by carefully checking product labels, expiry dates, and overall condition before making purchases.
According to him, the agency’s Scientific Investigation, Monitoring, and Enforcement departments collaborate closely to shield residents from unsafe and substandard products.
Highlighting recent enforcement efforts, Solebo disclosed that, as part of activities marking World Health Day, the agency inspected over 200 stores and supermarkets across Lagos.
He said the exercise led to the discovery, seizure, and removal of large quantities of expired, substandard, and hazardous products from the market.
Solebo warned that such products pose significant health risks if left unchecked, reiterating the agency’s commitment to strict enforcement of consumer protection laws.
“We will continue to enforce compliance to safeguard Lagos residents from unsafe and substandard products,” he stated.
He further cautioned against exposing plastic-bottled liquids to excessive heat and sunlight, noting that it could lead to chemical leaching, thereby compromising product safety.
Solebo advised residents to avoid leaving bottled drinks in the sun and discouraged the reuse of single-use plastic bottles, particularly for drinking water.
He assured the public that LASCOPA would intensify its enforcement operations to eliminate unsafe products from markets and uphold consumer rights.
The general manager also encouraged residents to promptly report cases of consumer rights violations to enable swift action by the agency.
Emphasising the importance of healthy living, Solebo noted that health goes beyond the absence of illness, stressing that daily choices regarding food, drinks, and product use hqve direct impacts on overall well-being.
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