The Lagos State Government has urged residents to exercise caution when purchasing goods, following the discovery of expired products in circulation. This warning comes as the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) prepares to prosecute the owner of Blessed Happy Homes Superstore in Festac, Amuwo-Odofin Local Government Area, for selling expired items and putting public health at risk.
The superstore, located on 6th Avenue, 13th Road, Festac Town, was recently sealed for violating health and safety regulations. Tokunbo Wahab, the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, emphasized that the state government is committed to ensuring accountability, with the prosecution serving as a deterrent to others.
During a recent inspection, LASCOPA officials found numerous expired products on the store’s shelves, including baby milk, beverages, body creams, and perfumes. The store’s manager initially resisted the enforcement officers, but legal action followed, leading to the issuance of a bench warrant for the owner’s arrest.
Afolabi Solebo, the General Manager of LASCOPA, revealed 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.
“It’s deeply concerning that expired products, some as old as April 2023, are still being sold in our markets. This compromises the health and safety of unsuspecting consumers,” Solebo stated. He urged consumers to carefully check expiry dates and product labels before making purchases, noting the prevalence of expired goods in circulation.
“We are intensifying our crackdown on erring businesses across the state,” Solebo added. “Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has a zero-tolerance policy for violations of consumer rights and unethical business practices. While the administration supports business growth, it insists on strict adherence to regulations.”
LASCOPA has pledged to conduct further inspections in the coming days to prevent the sale of expired products and protect public health. The agency reiterated the importance of ethical business practices and compliance with consumer protection laws to ensure a safe and trustworthy marketplace.
This case highlights the Lagos State Government’s commitment to prioritizing consumer safety while maintaining a fair and regulated business environment.
