LASCOPA Commences Verification Of Complaints On Alleged Adulterated C-Way Water

Sequel to a public complaint about the unwholesome activities of a water facility operated by one Mrs. Olufunmilola Salawu, accused of refilling CWay Dispensable Water bottles in Isheri-North, the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), on Friday, took samples of the CWay water recovered at her residence for necessary tests to determine its purity.

The General Manager, LASCOPA, Mrs. Kemi Olugbode, said the test will be conducted in the laboratory of the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA), to ascertain its suitability for consumption.

She explained that the steps were taken after a television broadcast about a tip-off from an anonymous resident in the area that Mrs. Salawu, an alleged agent of the manufacturer of the bottled water, was refilling the CWay Dispenser bottles with content from public sources.

Olugbode averred that LASCOPA commenced an investigation into the matter, in view of section 4 of the Consumer Protection Agency Law of Lagos State, which empowered the Agency to protect consumers from all marketing of goods and services that are hazardous to their wellbeing.

Continuing, the General Manager disclosed that during the facility inspection by the Agency, it was discovered that there was no proper storage system for the water, adding that the products were also displayed outside in an unfavourable condition.

While noting that the facility used for storage of the water is residential, she reiterated the need for consumers to always check for all the required details on products and ensure that the containers are tightly sealed before making any purchase.

The Agency also warned traders and marketers of consumable liquid products, especially water in PET bottles, to desist from displaying the products under sunlight as too much exposure to heat could render some products unfit for human consumption.