The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCopa) has issued a directive requiring all businesses operating in Lagos to disclose any changes to their products or services or face sanctions. The announcement, made on August 11, 2026, aims to safeguard consumer rights and ensure transparency in the marketplace.
New Disclosure Requirements
According to the agency, businesses must inform consumers about any modifications to product composition, pricing, packaging, or availability. This includes changes in ingredients, materials, or manufacturing processes that could affect product quality or safety. The directive applies to both physical and online retailers, as well as service providers.
LASCopa's General Manager, Mrs. Afolake Ogunleye, stated, "Consumers have the right to know what they are buying. Any undisclosed change that misleads consumers will be treated as a violation of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Law."
Sanctions for Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with the directive will result in penalties, including fines and potential suspension of business operations. The agency has not specified the exact amount of fines but emphasized that sanctions will be proportionate to the severity of the violation.
The move comes amidst growing concerns about hidden product alterations, particularly in the food and beverage sector, where changes in recipes or sourcing can go unnoticed by consumers. LASCopa aims to reduce cases of consumer deception and build trust between businesses and their customers.
Businesses Urged to Comply
Business owners are advised to review their communication strategies and ensure that all product updates are clearly communicated through labels, advertisements, and customer notifications. LASCopa has also encouraged consumers to report any suspected undisclosed changes via its official channels.
The agency plans to conduct routine inspections and market surveillance to enforce compliance. This directive is part of broader efforts to strengthen consumer protection in Lagos State, which is Nigeria's commercial hub.
As of now, no businesses have been sanctioned, but LASCopa warns that it will not hesitate to take action against violators. The agency is also considering publicizing names of non-compliant businesses to deter others.
