Lagos State Ministry of Justice

Committed to bringing justice to your doorstep

Year: 2025

Babajide Sanwo-Olu Fulfils Promise With Presentation Of Buses to MOJ

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The Lagos State Government has officially presented seven brand-new buses to the Ministry of Justice through the Lagos State Security Trust Fund, fulfilling an earlier commitment made by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to enhance the operational capacity of the Ministry and strengthen justice delivery across the State on Thursday, 31st of July, at the Secretariat, Alausa Ikeja. Delivering his remark at the event, the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, expressed profound appreciation to the Governor for his unwavering support to the Justice Sector. “This is a significant boost to our operations. These buses will greatly ease transportation logistics for legal officers and Prosecutors. Notably,( two) of the buses have been designated to convey offenders to court and back to their various facilities, which will support our efforts in ensuring timely trial processes while another( two)have been dedicated towards the Special Taskforce on Human Trafficking,” he said. The A.G noted that Governor Sanwo-Olu remains focused on building strong institutions, and the Justice sector is at the heart of that vision. These vehicles are not just a fulfillment of a promise; they are an investment in access to justice and in the professionals who make it happen every day. The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund (LSSTF), Dr. Abdurrazaq Balogun noted that the donation was made through the LSSTF at the instance of the Governor, and it marks the first time the agency is receiving such a request from the Governor to directly support the Ministry of Justice. “This reflects the Governor’s deep commitment to strengthening the justice and security sectors. These buses will undoubtedly improve the day-to-day functioning of the justice system and enhance inter-agency collaboration,” the Executive Secretary said. Additionally, the Controller of Corrections, Lagos Command, Controller George Daramola while expressing his heartfelt appreciation to the Governor and the State ministry of Justice,acknowledged the positive impact the two buses designated to the Nigerian Correctional Service will have on its operations , particularly in transporting inmates safely and efficiently. “These buses will contribute to more organized and secure transportation for offenders, enhancing the safety of our personnel and the timely movement of offenders to and from court,” the Controller said. Delivering the vote of thanks, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga extended gratitude to Mr. Governor, the Hon. Attorney General and the Executive Secretary LSSTF for their continued support towards the rule of law and speedy dispensation of Justice across the State. He stated that the provision of the buses aligns with the State Government’s broader vision of improving institutional capacity and promoting effective justice administration. The remaining vehicles will support the mobility of legal teams across the State, especially in high-demand and remote locations. Oyenuga also reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to deploying the buses effectively to advance justice access and operational efficiency in Lagos.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS HOSTS GROUNDBREAKING REVENUE RECOVERY SUMMIT.

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… Emphasizes Speedy Dispensation of Revenue Cases in Court In a bold step towards enhancing the State’s financial integrity and Justice delivery system, key stakeholders gathered on Friday for a Revenue Recovery Summit themed “Speedy Dispensation of Revenue Cases in Court”, organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. Presenting his remarks, the Hon. Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba, represented by Hon. Justice Hakeem Oshodi, reaffirmed the judiciary’s dedication to judicial efficiency and innovation. He announced a renewed commitment to fast-tracking revenue cases through the designation of specialized judges and the integration of technology in adjudication processes. “Justice delayed is indeed revenue denied,” he stated firmly, pledging continued collaboration with all revenue-generating agencies and the Ministry of Justice. Delivering the Keynote address, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, emphasized the urgency of the summit, noting that revenue is the lifeblood of public service delivery across sectors such as healthcare, education, security, sanitation, and infrastructure. Pedro stated that when revenue is trapped in prolonged legal processes, the true cost is borne by the ordinary citizens. The A.G also reiterated Lagos State’s strategic interventions to fast-track revenue cases, including the commissioning of the Commercial Courts Complex in Tapa, Lagos which is currently serving as the designated Revenue Court; as well as the creation of a Revenue Recovery Unit within the Ministry. He pointed out that legal frameworks such as the Lagos State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019 and the recently enacted Tax Administration Act 2025 already empower the government to pursue outstanding revenue efficiently and transparently. The Attorney General called on members of the judiciary, revenue authorities, and legal practitioners present to commit to practical solutions that will ensure expeditious resolution of tax and revenue disputes. “The Government’s policy is very clear: all revenue matters must be heard and determined speedily. Delay in revenue cases is a delay in governance,” the Attorney General affirmed. Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, urged stakeholders to embrace case management strategies that would support a fast, fair, and accountable system that serves both the state and the taxpayers. Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, set the tone for the day, emphasizing that the summit is not merely a discussion platform but a collective call to action. Oyenuga noted that revenue generation and recovery remain the backbone of governance, and any delay in revenue adjudication weakens service delivery to the people. In his remarks, the Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Mr. Ayodele Subair ably represented by Director Legal Services LIRS, Mr. Seyi Alade expressed deep concern over the slow pace of adjudicating revenue-related matters, describing it as a major challenge to effective revenue administration. He commended the Ministry of Justice for convening the summit and emphasized that prompt resolution of tax cases is crucial for deterring tax abuse and strengthening voluntary compliance. Mr Seyi Alade highlighted LIRS’ recent reforms, including the e-Tax platform, advanced tax intelligence tools, and enhanced enforcement mechanisms, and called for a more responsive judicial process. Key proposals included specialist training for revenue judges, strict timelines for litigation, and the establishment of a Revenue Justice Working Group. He stressed that “justice delayed in revenue matters is not only justice denied, it is development deferred.” Other notable dignitaries and presenters include, Hon. Justice Jumoke O. Pedro; Hon. Justice Yhaqub Oshoala; Chairman House Committee on Finance member representative of Kosofe 2, Hon. Femi Saheed; Permanent Secretary, Citizens Mediation Bureau, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju; Former AG/CJ & DCOS to the President FRN, Office of the Vice President, Mr. Ade Ipaye OFR; Hon. Justice Anjorin-Ajose; Magistrates, Lawyers ,Directors and Counsel in the State Ministry of Justice.

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PRESS RELEASE: PLEA BARGAIN – LAGOS MOJ, ROLAC SENSITIZES AWAITING TRIAL INMATES

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The Directorate of Public Prosecution under the Lagos State Ministry of Justice through its plea bargain committee, in collaboration with the Custodial Centres in Lagos State and the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC II), organized a series of sensitization programmes across various Correctional Centres in Lagos on the 15th,22nd and 30th of May 2025 respectively. The Director of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins ably represented by Mrs Adebanke Ogunode who led officials of the Ministry of Justice noted that the Plea Bargain process is in collaboration with the Restorative Justice Unit of the Ministry of Justice to give more awareness on their procedures as used in the Magistrate Court for minor offences. He said, the aim of the exercise was to enlighten inmates on the Plea Bargain process and introduce the use of a New Data Entry Form developed to aid proper documentation and to track cases of interested inmates who have explored the option. “Plea Bargain option is aimed at Prison decongestion and not a ploy to compel inmates to plead guilty to lesser Charges”Martins said. Martins further emphasized that “It is in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu’s reform initiative in the administration of Criminal Justice in the State.“ He however noted that the sessions were interactive and impactful, with several inmates expressing willingness to explore both Plea Bargain and Restorative Justice options. Lagos Ministry of Justice is committed to decongestion of correctional facilities in the State, ensuring timely access to justice and reintegrating offenders into the society. Overall, the programme was a success and contributed to the ongoing efforts to enhance speedy dispensation of justice and decongest the Correctional Centres.

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LAGOS HOLDS STAKEHOLDERS MEETING ON THE REVIEW OF OBAS AND CHIEFS LAW

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In a pivotal move to strengthen and modernize traditional institution, the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Wednesday convened a high-level Stakeholders’ Meeting on the review of the Obas and Chiefs Law of Lagos State held at Protea Hotel, Alausa, Ikeja. Delivering a keynote address, the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, emphasized that the meeting marked a deliberate and strategic step by the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to evolve a more responsive and culturally relevant legal framework for traditional institutions in the State. “As Lagos State navigates the complex waters of contemporary governance, the enduring presence of traditional rulers emerges as a beacon of cultural continuity and social cohesion,” Mr. Pedro stated. Pedro said that traditional institutions are gradually losing the respect and influence they once commanded noting that this review is aimed at restoring the dignity of royal institutions by addressing critical gaps, legal ambiguities, and misconduct that threaten the essence of traditions in the state. He further outlined the key focus areas of the proposed amendment, including the roles of traditional rulers in maintaining law and order, enhancing communication between the government and communities, promoting grassroots development, and resolving conflicts through mediation. Speaking earlier,Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, expressed delight at the impressive turnout, noting that the diverse representation underscored the value placed on Lagos State’s chieftaincy institutions. Oyenuga described the meeting as a timely opportunity for meaningful dialogue and collaboration aimed at strengthening the Obas and Chiefs Law.He emphasized the need to align the law which was last reviewed decades ago; with current realities and constitutional principles, while preserving the dignity and historical legacy of traditional rulers. The Solicitor General called for constructive engagement, expressing confidence that the deliberations would shape a more inclusive, just, and development-oriented legal framework for chieftaincy matters in the state. Also speaking at the event, His Royal Majesty Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, the Ayangbure of Ikorodu, commended the initiative of the State Government and stressed the importance of restoring confidence in the traditional institution. “We, as custodians of culture and morality, have a sacred responsibility to uphold the values of our people. But this responsibility must be matched with a legal framework that protects our roles and ensures accountability. The law must help preserve our heritage, not weaken it. I commend Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration for recognizing this,” the Ayangbure said. The meeting also served as a platform for traditional rulers and stakeholders to provide direct feedback on contentious issues, including the proliferation of chieftaincy titles, prolonged litigations, and the emergence of titles not rooted in community history or custom. The Stakeholders’ meeting concluded with a strong call for continued collaboration as the law progressed toward amendment and eventual passage by the Lagos State House of Assembly. Other attendees includes, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs,Mr Kayode Robert,PS Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Mrs. Kikelomo Bolarinwa; P.S Citizens Mediation Bureau,Mrs Derinsola Olanrewaju,Chairman and Members Standing Tribunal of Inquiry into Chieftaincy Matters, Hon. Justice O.A Dabiri; Chairman House Committee on Judiciary, Petitions, Human Rights and LASIEC, Hon. Oladipo Ajomale;, Traditional Rulers,White Cap Chiefs,Chieftaincy Officers from LGAs, Directors and Lawyers.

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LAGOS TRACKS OVER 73,000 CRIMINAL CASES, RECOVERS OVER ₦10 BILLION NAIRA — ATTORNEY GENERAL

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….Over 71,000 Offenders Prosecuted for Minor Offences; Processes Over 620 Petitions on Estate Disputes The Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), outlined the Ministry’s sweeping achievements in the past year, anchored on strengthening rule of law, justice delivery, and institutional reforms, on Wednesday 21st of May, 2025 at the Y2025 Ministerial Press Briefing held at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Secretariat, Alausa. According to the Attorney General, the ministry has always pursued justice, not only as a legal ideal but as a practical, daily necessity for over 20 million Lagosians. “Within the period under review, the ministry processed a total of 73,962 criminal cases across the state’s correctional facilities; over 10,000 of these between January 2024 and May 2025 only”. He noted that this was made possible through the Lagos Criminal Information System (LCIS), which now functions as a comprehensive databank of criminal case data, improving transparency and coordination across Lagos State justice system. Pedro also noted that Lagos custodial facilities are operating at 106% above their built capacity as of May 2025. In response, the Ministry has expanded non-custodial measures, including community service sentencing. “In this regard, we have supervised the community service of 10,120 offenders across 18 locations, thereby reducing congestion and enabling restorative justice”, he said. On social disorder offences, Mr. Pedro revealed that the Special Offences Mobile Court has been pivotal in restoring sanity to the public space. “We arrested, arraigned and secured convictions for 71,023 offenders for minor offences ranging from traffic violations to street trading and vandalism. This has had a measurable impact in deterring miscreants and preserving order across Lagos.” He explained. Turning to economic and civil justice, the A.G emphasized financial recoveries and mediation efforts stating that the Citizens Mediation Bureau received 214,342 matters and successfully resolved 141,404 of them. These resolutions brought relief to families and businesses alike, with a total of ₦2.2 billion recovered for aggrieved parties. Estate management and succession disputes also received attention.The Office of the Administrator-General and Public Trustee handled over 620 estate petitions, resolving 566 cases and disbursing ₦1.27 billion in benefits to beneficiaries. The office also generated ₦2.35 billion in revenue for the state. In the realm of public legal aid, Mr. Pedro declared that the Public Advisory Centre responded to 197,649 citizen inquiries, while the Bureau of Public Defender secured 1,323 court judgments and recovered ₦291 million for vulnerable Lagosians. These are not just statistics; they are lives changed, rights protected, and dignity restored. He further explained that the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, handled over 8,000 distinct cases of abuse and trauma. “We reached more than 6 million people through advocacy and outreach, while our counselling services directly helped over 4,000 survivors,” he noted. Infrastructure and staff welfare were not left behind. Mr. Pedro highlighted the commissioning of a new Commercial Court at Tapa and the reconstruction of the J.I.C. Taylor Court House with 24 courtrooms. “For the first time in the history of this State, and perhaps in Nigeria, Mr. Governor approved the construction of 34 three-bedroom flats to serve as Magistrates’ Quarters, 10 of which were also allocated to State Counsel in our Ministry,” he said. Regarding financial growth and state investment, the Directorate of Commercial Law generated over ₦6.5 billion through its legal advisory and agreement drafting services. “This underscores how justice supports commerce. Legal clarity breeds investor confidence,” he said. On legislative strides, he disclosed the passage of laws such as the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency Law, Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law, and the Fire and Rescue Service Law, with several other bills; including Tenancy Reform and Domestic Violence Protection—awaiting House action. The A.G also mentioned the collaboration between the Ministry of Justice and the ECOWAS Community Court for a sensitization outreach which was graced by top dignitaries, aimed at deepening public understanding of the ECOWAS Court’s role and jurisdiction among Nigerians and West African’s. With robust engagement from legal professionals, civil society, academia, and the general public, the court’s session in Lagos provided a rare opportunity for local stakeholders to witness its proceedings firsthand. This initiative aligns with the Ministry’s strategic vision to position Lagos as a hub for international and regional legal cooperation and reinforces its commitment to promoting the rule of law beyond national borders. Reflecting on the Ministry’s broader impact, Mr. Pedro concluded that each initiative implemented and every statistics presented during the briefing highlights a justice system that is effective; one where justice is accessible, responsive and capable of driving meaningful change. “It is imperative for lagosians to know that we’re not done. The challenges of a growing and diverse state like ours demand even more innovation, more empathy, and more resolve; and we are ready.” He said.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT COMMENDS ECOWAS COURT’S EXTERNAL SESSION INITIATIVE

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…A Milestone for Accessible Justice in West Africa The Lagos State Government on Thursday , proudly participated in the commencement of the External Court Sessions of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice at the Osborne Foreshore High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos. Delivering his address at the opening ceremony, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, commended the Court’s initiative and efforts to decentralize the administration of justice and make legal proceedings more accessible and transparent to the ordinary citizen. Ably represented by the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, he emphasized that the adjudication of cases and administration of justice are the pillars of a stable and progressive society. Echoing the words of Hon. Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves, “Justice hidden is justice denied”, He noted that these external sessions are not merely procedural, they are also educational, enlightening, and essential for empowering the public with the knowledge of their legal rights. The Attorney General described the external court sessions, a milestone and a vital move toward ensuring that every West African citizen is informed about their right to a fair hearing and access to justice, as well as how to effectively engage with the judicial system. The sessions will be seen as a platform for fostering stronger collaboration among West African nations and their legal institutions. Pedro emphasized that “the current administration is deeply committed to enhancing judicial systems and aligning them with international best practices.” “This initiative reaffirms our commitment to justice that transcends borders and serves all people, regardless of creed, status, or affiliation.” He however concluded with an appeal to the public and legal professionals in attendance to observe proceedings with decorum and to take full advantage of the insights offered through the sessions. Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, extended gratitude to the State Government and all dignitaries, justices, and stakeholders whose support and participation have made this important judicial outreach possible. Attendees at the Opening Ceremony of the External Court Sessions includes the Chief Justice of the Federation, Hon. Justice Kekere Ẹkun; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba; Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary MoJ, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; Directors and Counsel in the Ministry of Justice, Representatives of the Judiciary (Nigeria and ECOWAS), NBA, Lagos Commissioner of Police,Facilitators, Foreign Dignitaries and Law Students.

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PRESS RELEASE-LAGOS AG WELCOMES ECOWAS COURT’S SENSITIZATION OUTREACH.

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… Reaffirms Lagos’ Commitment to Regional Justice and Human Rights. Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN on Monday, welcomed the Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to Lagos for its 3day sensitization outreach programme, at The Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The program ,aimed at increasing public awareness about the Court’s mandate, procedures, and role in promoting Justice and human rights across the West African sub-region is scheduled for May 5th -7th,2025 Delivering his remarks at the opening ceremony, the Attorney General expressed deep honour and a strong sense of duty in addressing participants, stating that Lagos State is proud to host and support such a significant engagement. Pedro described the initiative as both a privilege and a responsibility for the State, which remains committed to strengthening collaboration with ECOWAS institutions in the promotion of justice, the rule of law, and human rights across the region. He highlighted the historical development of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, noting that although ECOWAS was established by the 1975 Treaty of Lagos, the Court itself came into being with the Protocol of 1991, and was fully recognised as an institution of ECOWAS under the 1993 Revised Treaty. “The 2005 Supplementary Protocol, which expanded the Court’s jurisdiction to include human rights claims by individuals, was identified as a turning point for access to justice in West Africa” the AG said. The Attorney General also reaffirmed Lagos State’s alignment with the ideals of the ECOWAS Court and commended its pivotal role in interpreting regional laws, addressing employment disputes involving ECOWAS, and holding member states accountable for human rights violations. He further emphasized the importance of preserving the balance between regional and domestic justice systems by encouraging the exploration of local remedies before seeking regional adjudication, except where such remedies are ineffective or unduly delayed. “This principle not only safeguards the sovereignty of member states but also reinforces the ECOWAS Court as a complementary, rather than substitutive, judicial institution.” Pedro stated. He encouraged legal practitioners in Lagos and beyond to deepen their understanding of the Court’s procedures, admissibility criteria, and jurisprudence. Doing so, he said, would empower citizens to access justice through all available mechanisms; local, national, and sub-regional. The A.G spotlighted Lagos State’s ongoing reforms in access to justice, particularly through the Lagos Multi-Door Courthouse (LMDC), the first court-connected Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) centre in Nigeria. He noted that this innovation has significantly eased the burden on the courts and provided faster, more flexible, and less adversarial pathways to justice. He expressed optimism that the ECOWAS Court would explore the integration of ADR mechanisms within its own processes, citing Lagos’ model as an example of how innovation and responsiveness to citizens’ needs can transform judicial systems. “As we consider the future of regional justice in West Africa,” the Attorney General stated, “Lagos remains committed to advancing models that are people-centred and justice-focused.” Concluding his address, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, urged members of the NBA and the wider legal community to actively engage with the ECOWAS Court while taking advantage of the opportunities it presents. “True regional integration must go beyond politics and economics, and be anchored in shared values of justice, dignity, and the rule of law”, He reaffirmed Pedro commended the ECOWAS Court for bringing this meaningful engagement to Lagos, the commercial and legal hub of West Africa; and expressed hope that the programme would serve as a foundation for deeper collaboration and stronger regional institutions. Attendees at the Opening Ceremony includes the Chief Host; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Chief Justice of the Federation, Hon. Justice Kekere Ẹkun; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba; Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary MoJ, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; Directors and Counsel in the Ministry of Justice, Representatives of the Judiciary (Nigeria and ECOWAS), NBA, Lagos Commissioner of Police,Facilitators foreign dignitaries and Law Students.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS COMMISSIONS NEW JUDICIARY FACILITIES TO STRENGTHEN ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE

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In a major stride toward enhancing the justice delivery system, the Lagos State Government, today, Friday 2nd of May, 2025, commissioned two critical judicial infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening the administration of justice and promoting rule of law in the State. These include the newly constructed Deputy Sheriff Warehouse in Majidun, Ikorodu, and the Magistrates’ Official Quarters in Ketu, Lagos. Speaking at the ceremony, the Governor of Lagos State; Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to judicial reform and institutional development; describing the projects as a “clear statement of intent,”. “These are not just buildings, but symbols of a government that understands the importance of structure in justice delivery,” Sanwo-Olu stated. He highlighted the warehouse as a critical step toward transparent and secure handling of court-ordered property executions and praised the Judiciary’s new initiative to protect perishable goods under appeal. On the Magistrates’ Quarters, the Governor noted that dignified housing is essential to supporting judicial independence and performance. “Magistrates must be able to focus on their vital role without the distraction of housing insecurity,” he said. Governor Sanwo-Olu also endorsed ongoing efforts to amend the Lagos State Tenancy Law, aimed at addressing rent-related challenges and fast-tracking tenancy dispute resolution. “These milestones further our vision of a Lagos where justice is accessible, efficient, and fair. We are building a judiciary that inspires confidence, protects rights, and serves as a cornerstone of democracy,” the Governor concluded. Speaking earlier, the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), hailed the initiatives as a demonstration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to good governance, justice sector reform, and the THEMES+ agenda. The Deputy Sheriff Warehouse, a first of its kind in the State, provides a secure, organized, and professionally managed space to preserve properties under judicial execution; particularly those subject to appeal and stays of execution. “This development institutionalizes an orderly and transparent system that protects property rights while preserving the integrity of the court’s decisions,” Mr. Pedro stated. In an innovative move, the Lagos State Judiciary will now also facilitate the sale of perishable or time-sensitive goods under appeal with proceeds held in trust, ensuring value preservation while litigation is ongoing. Further reinforcing judicial welfare, the Governor commissioned 34 newly built three-bedroom flats as official residences for magistrates, marking the first of such initiatives in Lagos State. “This is a deliberate effort to ensure that our magistrates can carry out their demanding duties without the burden of accommodation instability,” the Attorney-General added. The event also provided an opportunity to announce the Lagos State Executive Council’s recent approval of amendments to the Tenancy Law, which aims to curb exploitative rent increase and fast-track tenancy dispute resolution within 3 to 6 months. A bill to that effect has been forwarded to the State House of Assembly for legislative action. These initiatives underscore the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to justice, welfare, and inclusive development; concluding that: “Every infrastructure project is ultimately about people, ensuring that government works for everyone, from the most powerful to the most vulnerable.” Also in attendance includes The Deputy Governor of Lagos State,Dr Obafemi Hamzat, Chief Judge of Lagos State,Hon.Justice kazeem Alogba, Lagos High Court Judges, Magistrates, rep of the NBA, and critical stakeholders in the justice sector graced the ceremony.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS COURT SENTENCES OMINIKORON TO DEATH FOR THE MURDER OF OLUWABAMISE AYANWOLA

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The Lagos State High Court sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square has sentenced BRT driver Andrew Nice Ominikoron to death by hanging for the murder of 22-year-old Oluwabamise Ayanwola and the sexual assault of two other women. The presiding judge, Justice Sherifat Sonaike found Ominikoron guilty of murder, rape, and sexual assault after a high-profile trial. Ominikoron pleaded not guilty while facing a five-count charge filed by the Lagos State Government, including one count of murder, two counts of rape, and two counts of conspiracy. He was linked to Bamise’s death through CCTV footage, call logs, and medical reports. She had gone missing on February 26, 2022, after boarding a BRT bus he was driving, and her body was discovered days later, sparking nationwide outrage. The court also discovered he raped Maryland Ojiezelu and sexually assaulted Dr. Anosike Victoria in similar incidents. Justice Sonaike found the evidence to be clear and consistent, establishing that Ominikoron had exploited his position to prey on female passengers. Convinced that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt, she sentenced him to death by hanging. The Prosecution was led by Director Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins, Mr. Moshood Olateju, Mr. Alaba Kuku and Ms. Tolu Onilado. The judgment has been hailed as a landmark ruling and a step forward in the fight against gender-based violence in Nigeria.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS AG PAYS TRIBUTE TO LATE JUSTICE IBITOLA A. SOTUMINU AT VALEDICTORY COURT SESSION

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The Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, on Tuesday 15th of April, addressed the legal community in a solemn valedictory court session to honour the life and legacy of former Chief Judge of Lagos State, late Hon. Justice (Dr.) Ibitola A. Sotuminu (OON), held at the Lagos State High Court, Osborne Foreshore, Ikoyi. Mr. Pedro highlighted her remarkable dedication to the advancement of the judiciary, gender equality, and legal reform. He also praised her philanthropic efforts through the founding of the Home Concept Foundation for Elderly Support (HOMECOF), and her national recognitions, including the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2008. Pedro urged everyone to draw from her example stating that every judge present should remember that integrity on the Bench is not an ornament but an obligation. “Let every legal practitioner strive not only for competence but for compassion. Let those in public service recognise that power is transient, but legacy is enduring; and it is shaped, as that of Honourable Justice Sotuminu was, by how we serve others.” In closing, the AG emphasized that it is not enough to merely eulogise the former Chief Judge, late Hon. Justice Sotuminu’s achievements, her values must also be internalised. He further urged the legal community to walk in the path she carved with such grace and resolve, noting that her legacy should continue to inspire a judiciary that is fearless, faithful, and fair. Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Justice, the Judiciary, the Nigerian Bar, and all who had the privilege of working with her. “May her memory remain a blessing and a guiding light to us all,” he concluded.

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