Lagos Govt Moves Against Schools Forcing Parents to Buy Books, Uniforms
LASCOPA warns proprietors, tells parents: Report extortion, unfair practices
School proprietors in Lagos who force parents to buy textbooks, uniforms, stationery and other learning materials directly from their schools are facing a fresh crackdown by the state government.
The Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) has warned schools against compelling parents to purchase approved books and other school materials exclusively from them, particularly where the same items are available from other suppliers at lower prices.
The warning comes as schools across the state prepare to reopen for the new academic session.
LASCOPA, in a statement on Sunday, reminded parents and guardians of their consumer rights and urged them to report cases of unfair treatment, excessive pricing or other practices that violate consumer protection regulations.
The agency noted that parents are often handed lists of approved textbooks, stationery and uniforms after completing their children’s admission process.
However, it stressed that the availability of equivalent approved materials from other suppliers at reasonable prices means parents should not be unnecessarily forced to buy directly from the school.
LASCOPA said the move is part of the government’s effort to protect parents and guardians from unfair consumer practices and ensure transparency and fairness in the education sector.
The agency urged parents who encounter such practices to speak up and report them for appropriate action.
