Lagos State Ministry of Justice

PRESS RELEASE – LAGOS ATTORNEY GENERAL MARKS TWO YEARS IN OFFICE WITH LANDMARK LEGAL VICTORIES.

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…, ₦1.5 BILLION TAX RECOVERY, AND OVER 25,000 CRIMINAL CASES DIGITIZED The Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, on Tuesday 30th of September, 2025 held a press briefing and media parley to commemorate his second year in office at the Ministry of Justice Conference room, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. Mr. Pedro, who was sworn into office on 13th September 2023 following his appointment by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and confirmation by the Lagos State House of Assembly, described the two-year milestone as an opportunity to reflect on the journey so far and highlight significant accomplishments that have shaped governance, protected rights, and expanded access to justice in Lagos. In his address, the AG noted that legal advisory services to Ministries, Departments and Agencies have become faster and more efficient, while the prosecution and defence of cases on behalf of the State Government have been greatly strengthened. A landmark success was the Supreme Court judgment affirming the constitutional authority of Lagos State to regulate lotteries and games of chance, thereby protecting State revenue and entrenching fiscal federalism. He disclosed that the State has already returned to court to initiate contempt proceedings against the National Assembly for attempting to override the judgment through a Central Gaming Bill. On criminal prosecution, Mr. Pedro recalled the conviction of Andrew Nice in the BRT rape and murder case, describing it as proof of the Ministry’s resolve to deliver justice without fear or favour. He also highlighted the use of plea bargain, with 361 applications processed in the last two years, out of which 314 were approved, helping to decongest correctional centres. Additionally, 263 deserving inmates were released under the Governor’s prerogative of mercy, while 348 restorative justice cases were received, with agreements reached in 192. The Attorney General noted that although the Community Service Unit had faced setbacks in previous years, it has now been fully revitalised. The Head Office has been renovated with improved facilities, pioneer project officers have been absorbed into the Civil Service, and new buses, tools and safety equipment have been provided for effective operations. As a result of these interventions, 4,800 offenders have successfully carried out community service sentences in Lagos State over the last two years. Pedro revealed that the Lagos State Criminal Information System (LCIS), a databank automating criminal case records, now contains 78,982 cases, including 25,822 recorded between September 2023 and September 2025. This, he said, strengthens transparency and long-term criminal justice planning. On fiscal governance, Pedro announced that the establishment of Revenue Courts and a dedicated Revenue Recovery Unit has already yielded impressive results. He cited one notable bank that paid ₦1.5 billion in outstanding taxes following enforcement proceedings, with others now making arrangements to settle their liabilities. In safeguarding property rights, he confirmed that in the last two years, he signed 738 Deemed Grants and 810 Regularisation files, while the Lagos State Special Taskforce on Land Grabbers treated 982 petitions, enforcing sanctions against offenders in 124 confirmed cases of land grabbing. On the fight against human trafficking, the Attorney General reported that the Lagos State Task Force Against Human Trafficking (LASTAHT), which had been dormant since 2020, has been revitalised and recently facilitated the safe repatriation of seven Nigerian victims trafficked to Ghana. He stressed that staff welfare and motivation have been deliberately prioritised, with junior staff benefiting from their first retreat in a decade, senior management commencing a three-day retreat, and staff enjoying robe and litigation allowances, new buses, and functional elevators. For the first time, 10 flats have been secured as staff quarters for Counsel, reducing the accommodation burden on legal officers. Concluding his address, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, described the Ministry of Justice under his leadership as not just the custodian of the rule of law but a driver of social change and inclusive development. He expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his support, trust, and confidence in granting him the opportunity to serve Lagos State as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. Delivering his welcome address earlier, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, described the occasion as a moment of pride for the entire Ministry. He noted that the second-year anniversary of the Hon. Attorney General provided an opportunity to reflect on the Ministry’s steady progress in deepening access to justice, strengthening fiscal governance, and safeguarding the rights of citizens. Oyenuga assured that the Ministry will continue to support the Attorney General’s vision and uphold the standard of excellence that has made the Lagos State Ministry of Justice a model in Nigeria’s Justice Sector.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOJ, OPD CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE

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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice through its agency,the Bureau of the Public Defender formerly known as Office of the Public Defender (OPD), has celebrated 25years of unwavering commitment to justice at a commemorative event, themed “Honouring the Past, Defending the Future,” held on Wednesday 24th of September, 2025 at the Civic Center, Victoria Island, Lagos. Delivering his goodwill message,Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ably represented by the Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, congratulated the OPD for its steadfast service since its establishment in 2000, describing the OPD as a shining example of Lagos State’s commitment to protecting the rights of the vulnerable. “The OPD has stood for the voiceless, defended the weak, and offered hope to countless residents whilst making justice accessible to everyone in the State” He said. Sanwo-Olu expressed pride in the various strides that the State has made in strengthening the agency by expanding its offices to more communities, supporting its governing council and prioritizing access to justice as a pillar of the THEMES+ Agenda. “Let it be known that we celebrate not only the institution of BPD but also the resilience of its counsel, the courage of its clients and the fate of Lagosians in the justice sector”, the Governor noted. Earlier in his remarks,the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, underscored the importance of reflecting on OPD’s achievements over the years. Pedro highlighted the agency’s growth from a modest office into a full-fledged institution that has secured landmark victories in criminal defense, human rights protection, family matters, child rights, and domestic violence cases. “For 25 years, BPD has embodied the conscience of our justice sector. It has stood in defense of those who could not stand for themselves and has expanded the scope of justice to the grassroots. Today, as we celebrate the past, we must also recommit ourselves to strengthening the BPD to defend the future of justice in Lagos State,” the Attorney-General said. Delivering his welcome address earlier, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, noted that the theme “Honouring the Past, Defending the Future” aptly captures the essence of the celebration. He explained that the occasion was not only to mark a milestone, but also to reflect on a noble journey of service, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to justice. Oyenuga added that from its humble beginnings to its present stature, the Bureau has consistently affirmed that access to justice is a right, not a privilege; one that must be upheld with courage and integrity. Also speaking at the event, the Director of the Bureau, Mrs. Olubunmi Adesomoju, expressed deep appreciation for the remarkable turnout and support at the anniversary celebration. She assured that the agency will remain unwavering in its mandate, pledging that BPD will continue to innovate, expand its horizon, and defend the rights of the vulnerable, so that justice in Lagos State remains accessible and meaningful for all. The event featured goodwill messages from foreign partners, recognition of outstanding staff, and a panel session on the future of public defense in Lagos State. The celebration also brought together dignitaries and stakeholders from the judiciary sector, representatives of Pepperdine University, USA; Public Interest Law Partnership (PILP), NBA, Parastatal Monitoring Office (PMO), RoLAC, UNICEF, Civil Society Organizations,Directors, Heads of Unit and Counsel in the State Ministry of Justice.

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LAGOS AG HOST CHAIRMAN, CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION,COMMISSION MEMBERS

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The Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN on Thursday hosted the Chairman of the Lagos State Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Boladele Dapo-Thomas and other commission members, during a courtesy visit at the Ministry’s conference room, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. Speaking during the visit, the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, commended the Commission for its pivotal role in sustaining professionalism, discipline, and meritocracy within the State’s workforce. He noted that the Civil Service remains the engine room of government, stressing that synergy between the Ministry and the Commission is crucial for the smooth dispensation of justice and overall governance. Pedro also emphasized that the visit was a valuable platform to deepen institutional collaboration, particularly in the areas of staff development, capacity building, and improved welfare, which are critical to sustaining an efficient civil service and advancing the mandate of the Ministry of Justice. Delivering her remarks, the Chairman, Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Boladele Dapo-Thomas expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reiterated the Commission’s commitment to supporting the Ministry in achieving its statutory mandate. She emphasized that fostering mutual cooperation would not only enhance efficiency but also ensure the continued development of a robust and responsive Civil Service in Lagos State. The Chairman assured that the Commission would continue to work closely with the Ministry of Justice and its agencies to build a vibrant, responsive, and forward-looking civil service that meets the ever evolving needs of members of staff in the State. Earlier in his welcome address, Director Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins, noted that the visit reflects a shared commitment to strengthening public institutions, stressing that the Ministry values the Commission’s continuous support in building a motivated workforce and reaffirming that such collaboration is essential to sustaining excellence in governance and Justice delivery in Lagos State. The visit also provided an opportunity to exchange ideas on capacity building, recruitment of more State Counsel for the State Ministry of Justice and other strategic initiatives that would reinforce the delivery of quality Public Service to the people of Lagos State.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOJ: RJC, CSC SECURE COMMUNITY SERVICE SENTENCE FOR OFFENDERS

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In line with its reform agenda and commitment to decongesting correctional facilities across the State, the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, through its Restorative Justice Centre (RJC), in collaboration with the Non-Custodial/Community Service Centre, has secured a community service sentence for two bakery workers alleged to have stolen from their employer. The workers were accused of stealing five (5) loaves of bread, with their employer insisting they must be prosecuted in court. However, under the Ministry’s innovative sifting process at the Magistrate Courts, a District Prosecutor reviewed the matter and referred both parties to the Restorative Justice Centre instead of filing charges. Following a successful mediation at the centre, the parties reached an agreement whereby the offenders would serve two weeks of community service, which commenced immediately. This resolution highlights the Ministry’s proactive approach to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and accountability, while demonstrating the effectiveness of restorative justice in resolving minor offences.

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LAGOS MOJ, ROLAC SENSITIZES STAKEHOLDERS ON PLEA BARGAIN AND DISTRICT PROSECUTOR’S SCHEME.

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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice in conjunction with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC) Programme, recently organized a Second Stakeholder’s Meeting on Plea Bargain and District Prosecutor’s Scheme at Protea Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. Addressing participants at the meeting which was a hybrid version of both physical and online, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (S.A.N) ably represented by the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; appreciated the presence of stakeholders and noted that their participation reflects a shared commitment to improving the efficiency, fairness, and responsiveness of the Criminal Justice System. “This meeting is a vital step in advancing reforms. The plea bargain mechanism helps to ease the burden on our courts and ensures quicker case resolution, while the District Prosecutors Scheme decentralizes prosecutions and brings justice closer to the people,” Mr. Oyenuga stated. The Solicitor General emphasized that the success of these reforms relies on stakeholder engagement, transparency, and collaboration; urging participants to share insights and propose solutions that will make the reforms both effective and sustainable. Delivering his welcome address earlier, Director Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their presence and commitment to justice sector reform. He noted that the meeting will offer a timely opportunity to evaluate the implementation of the Plea Bargain and District Prosecutor Schemes while identifying areas for improvement. “These initiatives are central to ensuring access to justice, reducing case backlog, and enhancing prosecutorial efficiency. We are optimistic that today’s engagement will deepen collaboration and drive sustainable impact,” Dr. Martins stated. Also speaking at the meeting, the Lagos State Coordinator of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC), Mrs. Ajibola Ijimakinwa reiterated RoLAC’s commitment to supporting justice sector reforms in line with international best practices. She further recalled that under ROLAC Phase 1, a comprehensive plea bargain manual was developed, alongside extensive sensitization and training for prosecutors, defense lawyers, and judges. Highlighting that about 200 applications were received this year with 170 successfully processed. Ijimakinwa stressed that more still needs to be done to address issues of awareness, transparency, and stakeholder participation, also noting that the essence of the meeting was to review the current state of plea bargain, reflect on challenges, and develop practical recommendations for strengthening its implementation. The various Panel discussions which addressed salient and veritable tools of both initiatives was moderated by Director, Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins, while Associate Professor of Law, Faculty of Law, Unilag, Prof. Akeem Bello facilitated the discourse on “Plea Bargain in the Dispensation of Criminal Justice in Lagos State.” In addition, Mr. Adebayo Haroun,SSA to the Attorney led the session on the “District Prosecutor Scheme”, providing further insight into the Ministry’s innovative approach to bringing justice closer to the people. The event was well attended by dignitaries including Hon.Judges in Lagos both serving and retired, Judges and Permanent Secretaries from the South West States , Controller of Corrections, Law Enforcement Agencies, representatives from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), African Women Lawyers Association (AWLA), FIDA, Legal Aid Council, Magistrates, Facilitators , Directors and counsel in the State Ministry of Justice. The gathering provided a platform for robust dialogue, experience sharing, and the development of action points to guide the continued implementation of the Plea Bargain and District Prosecutors Scheme. The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to continuous engagement with stakeholders to ensure that justice in Lagos is timely, fair, and accessible.

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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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