By Aladesanmi Ezekiel
Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has vowed to prosecute retailers and Point Of Sale (POS) operators charging consumers extra N50 for the use of their services.
The General Manager of the Agency, Mrs Kemi Olugbode, who made the declaration yesterday said that it has become necessary in view of the numerous complaints received from consumers on POS charges
According to her, the demand of extra N50 charges from consumers for making use of POS services for various transactions amounts to ‘unscrupulous exploitation ‘ which is not allowed under the Consumer Protection Law
Continuing, she said that Section 4(c) of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Law gives consumers the right to ‘seek redress against unfair trade practice or unscrupulous exploitation ‘
Olugbode disclosed that her Agency is set to commence prosecution of retailers and operators of POS who engage in such unfair trade practices because complainant’s are seeking redress for the unscrupulous exploitation
The General Manager said that the N50 charges on use of POS which is a Stamp Duty Charge is to be paid only by retailers and operators of POS services, stressing that it is not meant for consumers.
She, therefore, urged consumers in the State to forward all complaints on infringement on their rights to LASCOPA for prompt action, stressing that LASCOPA was set up to ensure that the rights of consumers are protected and promoted.
