Yuletide: LASG Warns against expired products in markets

LAGOS STATE, Nigeria —The Lagos State Government has cautioned residents to guide against purchasing goods with expired dates, following the discovery of expired products in circulation.

This warning comes as the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) on Tuesday conclude plans to prosecute  the owner of Blessed Happy Homes Superstore in Festac, Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area, for endangering public health by selling expired items.

The superstore, located on 6th Avenue, 13th Road, Festac Town, was recently sealed for breaching health and safety regulations.

According to the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, the state government has zero tolerance for violations of consumer rights and unethical business practices, especially with expired products.

To this end, Wahala said Lagos state is determined to ensure accountability, with prosecution intended to serve as a deterrent to others.

During a recent operation, LASCOPA officials discovered several expired items on the supermarket’s shelves, including baby milk, beverages, body creams, and perfumes.

The store’s manager resisted enforcement officers, was  after several legal action, a bench warrant for the owner.

The General Manager of LASCOPA, Mr. Afolabi Solebo, disclosed that the owner has failed to respond to multiple summonses and is scheduled to appear before the Magistrate Court at the Lagos Taskforce Headquarters in Bolade–Oshodi on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.

Solebo said, “It’s deeply concerning that expired products, some as old as April 2023, are still being sold in our markets. This act jeopardizes the health and safety of unsuspecting consumers."

Solebo urged consumers to check expiry dates and product labels carefully before making purchases, emphasizing the prevalence of expired goods in circulation.

“We are intensifying our crackdown on errant businesses across the state,”

Solebo added. “The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has zero tolerance for violations of consumer rights and unethical business practices. While the administration supports business growth, it insists on adherence to regulations.”

LASCOPA has committed to inspecting more facilities in the coming days to curb the sale of expired products and safeguard public health.

The agency stressed the importance of ethical practices and compliance with consumer protection laws to ensure a safe and trustworthy marketplace.