Schools can’t force parents to buy books, uniforms from them — LASG

The Lagos State Government has reminded parents and guardians of their consumer rights, saying schools should not unnecessarily compel them to buy approved books, uniforms and stationery directly from the school when equivalent items are reasonably available from other suppliers.

The government, through the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, LASCOPA, issued the statement, Sunday, as schools prepare to reopen, urging parents and guardians to know their rights and report cases of consumer protection concerns.

According to the agency, parents are often given lists of books, stationery and uniforms after completing the admission process for their children.

However, a situation may arise where the same approved and equivalent items are available at another shop at a lower price.

LASCOPA noted that parents and guardians should generally be free to decide where to purchase such items when equivalent approved products are reasonably available elsewhere.

The agency illustrated a situation where a parent decides to purchase 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 on parents and guardians.

“Where equivalent approved products are reasonably available elsewhere, parents and guardians should generally be free to choose where to purchase them.

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“A school should not unnecessarily restrict parents from buying equivalent approved books, uniforms or stationery from other suppliers,” the agency added.  

LASCOPA urged parents and guardians to understand their rights and speak up whenever they encounter a consumer protection concern.

The agency stressed that consumers have a choice and should be 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 who have consumer protection complaints have been advised to report their grievances to LASCOPA.

Members of the public can also contact the agency through their emergency lines.

As schools prepare to resume, the Lagos State Government urged parents and guardians to remain aware of their consumer rights and report concerns to the appropriate authorities.

“In Lagos State, consumers are kings,” the government said.