By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A petitioner identified as Mr Tajudeen Olabisi Saka has received the sum of N1.65 million as a refund for the defective printing machine sold to him by a seller.
Mr Saka, after purchasing the equipment, discovered that it developed faults from the installation stage and efforts to get his money back was frustrated as the seller refused to make the refund.
The disappointed buyer had to file a petition to the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), which looked into the matter and found out that the seller was guilty.
The agency, thereafter, facilitated the refund, which was given to Mr Saka at the organisation’s office in Ikeja on Thursday.
The General Manager of LASCOPA, Mr Tajudeen Olabisi, while presenting the cheque of N1.65 million to the petitioner, noted that this was part of the mandate of the agency to ensure the protection of consumers from all forms of unwholesome practices from sellers, producers and manufacturers in Lagos.
According to him, after receiving the complaints from Mr Saka, the agency swung into action and “after investigation, it was discovered that the printing machine started developing faults from the installation stage, meaning the petitioner didn’t receive full value for his money. The issue was, however, settled with the refund of N1.65 Million to the petitioner.”
Mr Solebo stressed that LASCOPA is empowered by the enabling law to put checks in place to ensure producers are mindful of maintaining acceptable product quality and standards.
While noting that the services of LASCOPA are rendered free of charge and at no cost to the consumers, he urged residents to take advantage of the opportunity by forwarding their complaints to the agency to ensure their rights are protected.
The General Manager also enjoined consumers to submit their complaints by visiting the office of LASCOPA at 2B, Soji Adepegba Close, off Allen Avenue, Ikeja or send to the agency’s e-mail addresses: [email protected] and [email protected].
Adedapo Adesanya