General Manager, Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), Mr. Afolabi Solebo, says about 80 per cent of hazardous products stem from poor handling and improper storage.
Solebo disclosed this in a statement issued by Mr. Rufai Adesile, Assistant Director of Public Affairs (LASCOPA), on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, in Lagos.
He urged manufacturers and distributors to strengthen public sensitisation on proper storage and handling to uphold product quality and safety standards.
The general manager advised consumers to remain vigilant by checking labels, expiry dates and overall product quality before purchase.
Solebo said the agency’s Scientific Investigative Research, Monitoring and Enforcement departments work jointly to protect residents from unsafe and substandard products.
“As part of World Health Day activities, the agency conducted enforcement across over 200 stores and supermarkets in Lagos.
“This resulted in the discovery, seizure and removal of significant volumes of expired, substandard and hazardous products from circulation,” he said.
He noted such products pose serious health risks to consumers if left unchecked.
“We will continue to enforce strict compliance with consumer protection laws to safeguard Lagosians from unsafe and substandard products,” Solebo said.
He cautioned against prolonged exposure of plastic-bottled liquids to heat and sunlight, warning of potential chemical leaching.
“Such exposure may compromise product quality and pose health risks to consumers,” he explained.
Solebo advised residents to avoid exposing bottled drinks to sunlight and to refrain from reusing single-use plastic bottles, especially for drinking water.
He assured residents that LASCOPA would intensify enforcement to rid markets of unsafe products and uphold consumer rights.
Solebo urged the public to report consumer rights violations promptly to enable swift intervention.
“Health is not merely the absence of illness, but complete physical, mental and social well-being.
“The choices we make daily on what we eat, drink and use directly impact our overall health,” he said.
By Oluwatope Lawanson