Apples Bite Magazine reports that the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has issued a stern warning to hotels and short-let apartment operators across the state against the indiscriminate use of “no-refund” policies as the city braces for the annual Detty December festivities and the accompanying surge in visitors and commercial activities.
In a statement released on Thursday, Mr. Afolabi Solebo, General Manager of LASCOPA, revealed that the agency has received frequent complaints from guests, particularly during festive seasons, and cautioned accommodation providers against exploiting consumers under the guise of rigid policies.
The warning comes as Lagos prepares for one of its busiest periods of the year, when hotels and short-let apartments experience peak demand from both domestic and international visitors seeking to participate in the city’s vibrant end-of-year celebrations.
Solebo advised prospective guests to exercise due diligence by thoroughly reading terms and conditions before making reservations, verifying rooms physically or through authentic images, insisting on receipts or digital proof of payment, and promptly reporting cases of substandard service delivery.
Beyond accommodation concerns, LASCOPA also alerted consumers to be vigilant against fake, expired, and repackaged products that typically flood the market during the festive season. Items of particular concern include alcoholic beverages, cosmetics, perfumes, children’s toys, food items, and electrical appliances.
The agency advised consumers to check expiry dates, confirm NAFDAC registration numbers, scrutinise packaging, and patronise reputable or traceable vendors to avoid health risks and financial losses.
LASCOPA further cautioned that the surge in banking and commercial transactions expected in December could lead to delays, wrongful debits, hidden charges, and poor service delivery from restaurants, lounges, logistics companies, and online ticket vendors.
Consumers were advised to keep proper transaction records, seek clarification on service charges, and escalate unresolved issues promptly to avoid being shortchanged.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding consumer rights, LASCOPA announced it will intensify monitoring and enforcement activities throughout the festive season to ensure strict compliance with consumer protection standards, warning that defaulters will face appropriate sanctions.
The agency provided multiple channels for consumers seeking assistance, including hotlines (08124993895, 09153894878), its Head Office at 2B Soji Adepegba Close, Off Allen Avenue, Ikeja, and annexed offices in Badagry LGA, Ikorodu LGA, Isolo LCDA, Bariga LCDA, Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA, and Ojo LGA.
Complaints can also be lodged via email at lascopa@lagosstate.gov.ng or lasgcopa@gmail.com, or through social media handles on Facebook (@lascopa), Instagram (@lasgcopa), and X (@lasgcopa).
LASCOPA encouraged consumers to remain vigilant and make informed decisions to enjoy a safe and scam-free festive season in Lagos, emphasising that consumer protection remains a priority for the state government during this high-activity period.
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.