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The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency has issued a strong warning to businesses operating across the state over the rising incidence of misleading pricing, hidden charges, and deceptive advertising practices affecting consumers.
The agency expressed concern that some businesses advertise products and services at attractive prices, only for customers to be confronted with additional costs or altered conditions at the point of purchase, a practice it described as misleading and unlawful.
According to the General Manager of the agency, Afolabi Solebo, such practices undermine consumer trust and violate provisions of Lagos State consumer protection regulations, which require that all advertised prices be clear, accurate, and fully inclusive.
The agency cautioned against tactics such as fake discounts, unclear pricing structures, and bait-and-switch advertising strategies, warning that they distort market transparency and disadvantage unsuspecting consumers.
It further advised businesses running promotions, sales campaigns, or promotional draws to avoid vague terms such as “while stock lasts,” stressing that all promotional conditions must clearly specify duration, eligibility, and terms of engagement.
Brandspur Brand News Desk reports that the agency has reinforced its enforcement stance, noting that violations of fair pricing and advertising standards fall under consumer rights protections, particularly the right to accurate information in all commercial transactions.
LASCOPA warned that non-compliant businesses risk sanctions, penalties, and possible prosecution under applicable state consumer protection laws.
The agency urged supermarkets, online vendors, automobile dealers, electronics retailers, and service providers to review their pricing and advertising strategies to ensure full compliance with transparency requirements.
Consumers were also encouraged to report cases of misleading pricing and false advertising through official complaint channels to support regulatory enforcement efforts.
LASCOPA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a fair, transparent, and competitive marketplace in Lagos State, while strengthening consumer confidence and protecting residents from exploitative business practices.
