The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has warned consumers about expired and near-expired products allegedly being reintroduced into the market with falsified production and expiry dates.
Eko Hot News reports that the agency raised the alarm over the alleged use of devices and chemicals capable of removing and reprinting dates on product packages.
The General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of LASCOPA, Afolabi Solebo, Esq., said the practice could expose unsuspecting consumers to unsafe products.
Solebo stressed that consumer safety remains a priority for the agency and warned businesses against manipulating product information.
He explained that altering expiry dates violates the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency Law, 2025, as amended.
According to him, LASCOPA enforcement teams have been conducting inspections across all Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas in the state.
The inspections have reportedly uncovered products with suspicious date markings and other irregularities.
Some of the concerns identified include altered date codes, damaged packaging and questionable product conditions.
The agency said the findings highlight the need for greater vigilance among consumers and businesses.
Solebo warned that individuals and businesses involved in falsifying product information could face sanctions under the relevant law.
Possible enforcement measures include seizure of affected products and closure of business premises.
Offenders could also face prosecution where violations are established.
The LASCOPA boss urged consumers to examine products carefully before making purchases.
He advised buyers to check production and expiry dates for signs of alteration or inconsistency.
Consumers were also encouraged to pay attention to smudged labels, unusual markings and damaged packaging.
According to the agency, such signs could indicate that a product’s information has been tampered with.
Solebo advised residents to patronise trusted vendors and retain receipts after purchasing products.
Receipts, he explained, can assist consumers when reporting complaints or seeking redress over questionable purchases.
The agency also called on manufacturers to strengthen their product labelling systems.
Manufacturers were encouraged to use clear and standardised information for batch numbers, production dates and expiry dates.
The recommendation is aimed at making it easier for consumers and enforcement agencies to verify product information.
LASCOPA said accurate labelling is important for protecting consumers and maintaining confidence in products sold across Lagos.
The agency’s inspections are expected to continue as part of efforts to ensure compliance with consumer protection regulations.
Retailers and distributors are also expected to verify the condition and validity of products before displaying them for sale.
Businesses found with expired or improperly labelled products may face regulatory action.
The warning comes amid growing concerns about the circulation of products whose labels may not accurately reflect their actual shelf life.
Consumers therefore have an important role to play by checking products before purchasing them.
They are also encouraged to report suspicious products or businesses to the appropriate consumer protection authorities.
LASCOPA maintained that businesses must prioritise consumer safety and comply with established standards.
The agency said deliberate manipulation of expiry information would not be treated lightly.
Solebo reiterated that protecting consumers requires cooperation between regulators, manufacturers, retailers and members of the public.
He urged businesses to ensure that only properly labelled and compliant products reach consumers.
The agency also encouraged residents to remain vigilant when purchasing food, household goods, cosmetics and other packaged products.
Consumers should avoid products with unclear, altered or suspicious expiry information.
LASCOPA said its enforcement activities would continue across Lagos to identify and address violations.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to promoting safe products, responsible business practices and stronger consumer protection across the state.
It urged residents to make informed purchasing decisions and report concerns whenever they encounter potentially compromised products.
The agency maintained that cooperation from the public would strengthen efforts to keep unsafe and improperly labelled products away from consumers.
