Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA)

Overview

The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) was established under the Consumer Protection Agency Law, Cap 13 of the Laws of Lagos State, 2014, to ensure the protection and promotion of consumer rights across the State. The Agency serves as the statutory safeguard for consumers of goods and services, working to enforce fair practices, resolve disputes, and foster accountability in both private and public sector transactions.

LASCOPA operates as a critical regulatory agency under the supervision of the Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment (MCCTI).

Core Responsibilities

• Protect and promote the interests of consumers in Lagos State
• Investigate consumer complaints and mediate disputes
• Enforce compliance with consumer rights regulations and quality standards
• Conduct monitoring and surveillance of markets and service providers
• Educate the public on consumer rights and responsibilities
• Undertake scientific research into unsafe or substandard products and practices

Operational Structure

The Agency delivers on its mandate through four major departments:

Key Activities

• Market inspections and enforcement actions against fraudulent or unsafe products
• Public sensitisation campaigns on consumer protection laws
• Resolution of commercial disputes involving defective goods or poor service delivery
• Collaboration with regulatory bodies such as NAFDAC, SON, and LASCOPA Consumer Clubs in schools

Impact

LASCOPA has helped recover millions of naira in monetary compensation for aggrieved consumers and has secured justice in cases involving product fraud, health risks, and unethical market practices. Through proactive engagement, it is strengthening a culture of consumer respect and accountability across Lagos.