The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has successfully recovered over N330 million from various service providers, including hospitals, for delivering substandard services to residents. This recovery effort highlights the agency’s commitment to upholding consumer rights across Lagos State.
In an interview with PUNCH Healthwise, LASCOPA General Manager Afolabi Solebo disclosed that since the agency’s inception, it has handled 9,563 complaints, with 9,128 of these resolved through mediation and legal channels. Solebo detailed that N5.5 million was specifically recovered from hospitals that provided inadequate care, emphasizing the agency’s dedication to ensuring healthcare providers maintain the standards promised to their patients.
LASCOPA’s efforts are not limited to the healthcare sector. The agency also recovered significant sums from other industries:
- Electricity Distribution: N83 million from Ikeja Electric Distribution Company and N28 million from Eko Electricity Distribution Company over billing discrepancies and service complaints.
- Automobile Sector: N34 million from two companies due to defective vehicles and poor customer service.
- Online Transactions: N17.8 million for issues related to product discrepancies and refund difficulties.
- Food and Beverage: N22 million for expired products and unsatisfactory services.
- Telecommunications: N41 million related to service and billing problems.
- Hospitality: N42 million recovered from hotels and clubs where advertised services did not match actual experiences.
- Other Consumer Goods: N9 million for faulty inverters and N21 million over no-refund policies.
Solebo urged residents to remain vigilant and proactive in reporting substandard services, stressing that LASCOPA is ready to assist consumers in seeking redress. He highlighted the agency’s accessibility, with offices across Lagos State and multiple contact options, including phone lines and social media platforms.
At a media parley commemorating a partnership between LASCOPA and the Lagos State Health Management Agency on the ILERA EKO Health Insurance Scheme, Solebo reiterated the agency’s commitment to ensuring that healthcare service providers deliver high-quality services under the scheme.
Solebo encouraged residents to first report any dissatisfaction to the hospital management. If unresolved, they should promptly contact LASCOPA to ensure their rights are protected.
LASCOPA’s efforts underscore its mission to ensure that all Lagosians receive the quality of care and services they deserve.
