On consumer rights and protection against exploitation

As a citizen and a consumer, I strongly believe that the time has come for us to take a hard look at the way businesses operate in our communities and to ensure that our rights as consumers are protected and upheld.

Firstly, businesses must be held accountable for the products and services they sell. This means that we need stronger consumer protection laws that prohibit false advertising, hidden fees, and other deceptive business practices that mislead consumers. It is also crucial that consumers are made aware of their rights and the remedies available to them when they are wronged.

Secondly, we need to focus on creating a culture of transparency and trust between businesses and consumers. This can be achieved through regular communication and engagement between business owners and their customers, as well as by providing consumers with access to information about the products and services they buy.

Thirdly, we must promote fair competition among businesses. This means putting an end to monopolies and working to break up oligopolies that stifle competition and lead to higher prices for consumers. The government can play a role in this by working to promote small business growth and development in local communities.

We need to ensure that consumer protection agencies and regulators are adequately empowered and equipped to enforce the laws and regulations that protect consumers. This means providing them with sufficient resources and personnel and allowing them to act independently without fear of retribution from powerful business interests.

Also, there is a need to promote education and awareness about consumer protection issues. This can be achieved through media campaigns, public service announcements, and educational programmes that teach consumers about their rights and the resources available to them.

Furthermore, we need to encourage businesses to develop and implement ethical business practices that prioritize the well-being of their customers. This includes developing fair and equitable policies for dealing with customer complaints and feedback, as well as investing in research and development that prioritizes the health and safety of consumers.

In conclusion, we must prioritize the protection of consumer rights in our communities. Businesses have a responsibility to operate ethically and transparently, and it is the government’s responsibility to enforce laws and regulations that protect consumers. We must work together as consumers, business owners, government officials, and community members to create a culture of trust, transparency, and fairness that benefits all parties involved.

• Oluwanifemi Akande, Mass Communication Department, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State

 

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