The Honorable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Lagos State Government to deepening justice sector reforms, improving access to justice, and strengthening public confidence in the administration of justice across the State.
The Attorney-General made this known during a media chat with Judicial Correspondents and Editors on Tuesday 10th February, 2026 at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), complex,Ikeja,where he provided comprehensive insights into key reforms and policy interventions being implemented by the Ministry of Justice.
According to him, the Ministry has recorded notable improvements in case tracking mechanisms, plea bargaining processes, and the use of the Prerogative of Mercy as a strategic tool to address congestion in correctional centres across Lagos State.
“We have strengthened our internal systems to ensure better case monitoring, faster resolution of matters, and more efficient prosecution processes. These reforms are deliberate and targeted at delivering timely and credible justice,” the Attorney-General stated.
Pedro described the Lagos State Justice Summit held in 2024 as a major turnaround moment for the justice sector, noting that resolutions from the summit have significantly influenced recent reforms and policy directions within the Ministry.
One of such outcomes, he explained, is the Administration of Civil Justice Bill, which has been passed and awaiting legislative process at the Lagos State House of Assembly. When implemented, the law will ensure that civil cases are concluded within 12 to 18 months, while tenant–landlord disputes will be resolved within three to six months, thereby reducing delays and improving access to justice for residents.
The Attorney-General also highlighted the Ministry’s sustained focus on access to justice, particularly for indigent and vulnerable persons, through key institutions including the Bureau of the Public Defender (BPD), the Citizens’ Mediation Bureau (CMB), the Directorate for Citizens’ Rights, and the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA).
He noted that these agencies continue to play critical roles in dispute resolution, human rights protection, victim support, and public legal education across the State.
On institutional collaboration, the AG emphasized the strong working relationship between the Ministry of Justice and the Judiciary, noting that regular engagements and idea-sharing have helped to improve efficiency and policy alignment within the justice delivery system.
Addressing welfare and infrastructure, he disclosed that staff quarters have been constructed for magistrates, with assurances that more are underway in line with the Governor’s commitment to improving judicial welfare and independence.
He further revealed that correctional centres across Lagos State are currently undergoing renovation, as part of ongoing efforts to improve conditions for inmates and enhance security and rehabilitation outcomes.
In addition, Pedro announced that the Governor recently approved the provision of purpose-built buses for the safe and dignified transportation of inmates to and from court proceedings, a move aimed at strengthening security and improving the administration of criminal justice.
While addressing topical legal issues currently in the public space, the Attorney-General stressed that the Lagos State Government remains guided strictly by the rule of law and due process, urging the public to allow legal matters to run their full course.
He also called on the media to deepen its partnership with the Government by doing more to project the activities of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, enlighten the public on justice sector reforms, and promote accurate and responsible reportage in the interest of good governance.
“The media remains a critical partner in public enlightenment and in building trust between government and the people. We urge continued collaboration in telling the true story of justice reforms in Lagos State,” he added.
The media chat concluded with a reaffirmation of the Ministry’s commitment to continuous reform, stakeholder engagement, and the delivery of a justice system anchored on efficiency, fairness, and accountability.
