The Lagos State Government has reminded parents and guardians of their consumer rights, warning schools against unnecessarily compelling them to purchase approved books, uniforms and stationery directly from the institutions when equivalent products are reasonably available from other suppliers.
The government, through the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), issued the reminder on Sunday as schools prepare to reopen, urging parents and guardians to understand their rights and report consumer protection concerns.
According to the agency, parents are often given lists of required books, stationery and uniforms after completing the admission process for their children.
However, LASCOPA noted that situations could arise where the same approved and equivalent items are available from other suppliers at lower prices.
The agency said parents and guardians should generally be free to decide where to purchase such items, provided the products meet the school’s approved requirements.
It illustrated a situation where a parent purchases the required books or uniforms from another supplier, only to be told by the school: “No. You must buy them from us. We don’t accept books or uniforms purchased elsewhere.”
The state government said such restrictions should not be unnecessarily imposed where equivalent approved products are reasonably available elsewhere.
“Where equivalent approved products are reasonably available elsewhere, parents and guardians should generally be free to choose where to purchase them,” LASCOPA stated.
The agency urged parents and guardians to understand their consumer rights and speak up whenever they encounter practices they consider unfair.
LASCOPA stressed that consumers have a choice and should remain aware of their rights when making purchases connected with their children’s education.
“You have a choice. Know your rights. Speak up,” the agency stated.
Parents and guardians with consumer protection complaints have been advised to report their grievances to LASCOPA through its designated channels.
The agency also encouraged members of the public to contact it through its emergency lines when necessary.
