Lagos State Ministry of Justice

LASG Enacts Five Transformative Laws To Protect Citizens And Enhance Public Welfare

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….remains resolute in its mission to create a thriving and inclusive metropolis. The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has enacted a series of transformative laws aimed at safeguarding the rights, welfare and security of Lagos residents. The Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, declared this during a press conference held on Thursday, 12th December, 2024 at the conference room of the State Ministry of Justice, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. He detailed the objectives and provisions of these laws, emphasizing their role in positioning Lagos as a model for progress and justice in Nigeria as a whole. The newly enacted laws include, Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law, Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplant Law, Lagos State Enforcement Training Institute Law, Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Law. According to the AG, these laws represent the State Government’s Commitment to address the needs of Lagos Citizens, safeguarding their rights and creating a more just, secure and prosperous State. Pedro further highlighted each law stating that, the Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law, protects consumers rights by investigating unfair trade practices, fraud, and unsafe products which attracts a fine up to #5,000,000 (five million naira) or imprisonment, first time offenders may be convicted to a fine of #500,000 (Five Hundred Thousand Naira) or a term of six months custodial sentence while subsequent offenders get a fine up to #750,000 (Seven Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira) and a longer sentence. “The Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplant Law regulates organ donation and ban illegal harvesting and sales. Violation risk up to #10,000,000 (Ten Million Naira) in fines or 10 years imprisonment” “Victim Assistance and Witness Protection Law, provides support and safety for crime victims and witnesses through relocation, legal aid and counseling”. “The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Law improves fire services and enforces safety measures which also attracts a fine up to #5,000,000 (Five Million Naira) or two years imprisonment” Finally, the Lagos State Enforcement Training Institute Law which seeks to enhance training for law enforcement officers to improve professionalism and public safety. The Attorney General stressed that the new laws ensure businesses are accountable, citizens rights are protected, medical institutions uphold their ethics while safeguarding individuals from exploitation. “Also by supporting victims witnesses, the laws promote cooperation within the justice system. Additionally, they strengthen emergency response services and reflect the government’s dedication to building a safer, healthier and great Lagos for everyone”, Pedro said. While urging residents to familiarize themselves with the new laws and actively engage in the implementation, the Attorney General reaffirmed that Lagos State Government remains resolute in its mission to create a thriving and inclusive metropolis.

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LAGOS STATE Ministry of Justice and the Directorate for Citizens Rights Celebrate WORLD HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2024

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“Human rights are under assault.Tens of millions of people are mired in poverty, hunger, poor health and education systems that have not yet fully recovered from the COVID-19 pandemic……….Global inequalities are running rampant ; Conflicts are intensifying whilst International law is wilfully ignored.Authoritarianism is on the march, civic space is shrinking.” International Human Rights Day is dedicated to promoting and safeguarding the fundamental rights and freedoms of Every Human Human rights play a critical role as a preventive, protective and transformative force in addressing people’s greatest concerns. Just as the Nigerian Human Rights Commission is committed to Enforcing F H R in the Nation, the Directorate for Citizens Rights is the Pioneer Directorate designed to address this across the stateFor more than A Decade The Directorate through Mediation, has intervened in As the WORLD Celebrates HUMAN RIGHTS DAY 2024, Directorate for Citizens Rights is Re-iterating the need to be more informed about their Rights as Aggressive Campaigns are on-going to Sensitize the General Public and Students in Primary and Secondary Schools in Lagos State on how to Enforce Them Happy Celebration……

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PRESS RELEASE: OPD Commemorates International Day For Elimination Of Violence Against women and Children with Advocacy Campaign .

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Lagos State Office of Public Defender today commemorated the annual International Day For Elimination of violence against women and children with advocacy campaign held at some selected markets within Lagos Mainland Local government area. The programe themed “Orange the world :Time to Act Now” was organized to raise awareness and highlight lasting solution to stop violence against women and girls.. Among the Markets reached for the advocacy campaign rally were Oyingbo , Ido, Mokoko, Sabo and Yaba markets where the campaign teams engaged the market women about the Theme of the campaign and responsibilities of OPD Speaking during the campaign rally, the Director, Office of Public Defender, Mrs Olubunmi Adesomoju stated that annually, from November 25 to December 10, the world observes the 16 days of activism against gender- based violence, the campaign that aims to raise awareness and to mobilize action to end all forms of violence against women and girls. She said ‘ It is part of the responsibilities of OPD to provide free legal services to the indigent and vulnerable residents of the States with emphasis on issues threatening the socio-economic right of the poor as well as other disadvantaged group like women and children”. Adesomoju further states “the Agency is celebrating, commemorating and raising awareness on the violence and also for the members of Public to be more enlightened on the responsibilities and mandates of the Agency and State Government ‘s policy on Access to justice.” Olusesi OlatundeHead, Public AffairsOPD.6/12/2024

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Lagos Attorney General receives the Attorney General of Borno State

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Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN) received the Hon. Attorney General of Borno State, Mrs. Hauwa Abubakar and her team during a courtesy visit on Tuesday, 26th November, 2024, at the conference room of the State Ministry of Justice, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. The Commissioner expressed delight that the Borno State delegation has come to Lagos to understudy its justice delivery system, emphasizing the importance of inter-state cooperation in advancing the rule of law and the quick dispensation of justice in Nigeria. In her remarks, the Attorney General of Borno State, Mrs Hauwa Abubakar, highlighted the significance of this engagement, noting that Lagos serves as a model for justice reforms across the nation. This partnership is anticipated to strengthen collaborative ties between Lagos and Borno State, enhancing the overall effectiveness of Nigeria’s justice delivery system. In attendance; Solicitor General/Permanent Secretary, MoJ, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; Director, DCR Borno, Habiba Takulbu Gana; Principal and Senior State Counsel from Lagos, Borno State and other Directors in the Ministry of Justice.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS APPOINTS SOLICITOR GENERAL AND PERMANENT SECRETARY

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The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday, 22nd November 2024, appointed and swore-in Mr. Oyenuga Hameed Olanrewaju as the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice. Mr. Oyenuga was sworn-in alongside other newly appointed Permanent Secretaries in a ceremony held at the Lagos House, Ikeja. Born on November 30, 1966, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Mr. Hameed Olanrewaju Oyenuga attended Jamatul-Islamiyyah Primary School and Government College, Ikorodu, before earning his Law degree (LL.B Hons.) from Rivers State University of Science and Technology in 1989 Oyenuga was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1990 and began his career as a Legal Officer with the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission in 1991. Over the years, he served across all Local Governments in Lagos State before transitioning to the Ministry of Justice in 2006, where he rose to the position of Director of Civil Litigation in 2013, coordinating litigation for and in defence of the State Civil cases until his appointment as SG/PS. A member of both the Nigerian and International Bar Associations, Mr. Oyenuga has attended numerous local and international conferences, seminars, and management courses. Known for his commitment to excellence in civil litigation,he is married with children and enjoys reading and traveling at his leisure time.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS ATTORNEY GENERAL CHARGE NEWLY APPOINTED SOLICITOR GENERAL AND PERMANENT SECRETARY ON UPHOLDING JUSTICE AND INTEGRITY

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The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, has called on Mr. Oyenuga Hameed Olanrewaju, the newly appointed Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, to prioritize upholding justice, fairness, and integrity in his new role. The charge was disclosed at the reception organized by the Ministry of Justice on Friday, 22nd November, 2024 at the Conference room, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. Speaking at the reception, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, highlighted the critical role of the Solicitor General in ensuring the effective administration of justice. “This is a position of immense responsibility, and I have no doubt that Mr. Hameed Oyenuga will rise to the occasion. I urge him to continue demonstrating the integrity and professionalism for which he is known and to focus on fostering trust in our legal system,” the Attorney General stated. In his remarks, Mr. Oyenuga expressed gratitude to the Governor, Attorney General and members of staff in the ministry for the opportunity and pledged to serve with dedication and transparency. “This appointment is both an honor and a responsibility. I am committed to ensuring that the Ministry of Justice remains a beacon of fairness and accountability in Lagos State,” he affirmed. The reception was attended by dignitaries, family, and friends who lauded Mr. Oyenuga’s track record of excellence and dedication to service. They described him as a man deeply committed to fairness and justice, both in his professional and personal life. Close friends and colleagues shared personal stories, praising his humility, resilience, and dedication. The event concluded with renewed optimism for the Ministry of Justice as Mr. Oyenuga Hameed Olanrewaju begins his tenure with a firm resolve to uphold the values of justice, fairness, and the rule of law in Lagos State. Mr. Oyenuga Hameed Olanrewaju, born on November 30, 1966, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, attended Jamatul-Islamiyyah Primary School and Government College, Ikorodu, before earning his Law degree from Rivers State University of Science and Technology. Called to the Nigerian Bar in 1990, he began his career as a Legal Officer with the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission in 1991 and worked in various local Government as a legal Officer.In 2006,he was redeployed to the Mainstream of the Lagos State Public Service and posted the Ministry of Justice. He rose through the ranks in various departments within MOJ especially the Directorate of Civil Litigation, coordinating litigation for and in defense of the State Civil cases. A member of both the Nigerian and International Bar Associations, he has attended numerous local and international conferences, seminars, and management courses. He is married with children and enjoys reading and traveling in his leisure time.

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Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN) receives the NAPTIP ,Lagos Management team and the emissaries from the European Union.

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Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Mr Lawal Pedro (SAN) received the NAPTIP ,Lagos Management team and emissaries from the European Union,Abuja led by the Acting Head of Cooperation/Head Section Democracy, Governance and Migration, Mr. Ruben Alba Aguilera during a courtesy visit to the Hon. Attorney General at the Conference room of the State Ministry of Justice on Friday, 8th November, 2024, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. The Commissioner expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the visitation team for their resilience, steadfastness ,commitment and support in achieving their various mandates emphasizing that Lagos State will not rest on his oars in addressing human trafficking in the State. Also present at the meeting, Delegate of the EU to the Federal Republic of Nigeria/Economic Community of West African States, Mr. Ron Hendrix; EU Migration Liaison Officer, Mr. Franklin Nguendia; Representatives from National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), Lagos State Neighborhood Safety Agency,Network Against Trafficking, Abuse and Labour (NACTAL) and other relevant stakeholders.

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PRESS RELEASE: PREROGATIVE OF MERCY

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SANWO-OLU APPROVES RELEASE OF 55 INMATES. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently, on the 15th of October, 2024 on the recommendations of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy has approved the release of 55 inmates from various correctional facilities across the State.The release order was for the immediate release of 40 inmates while others are to be released after serving additional term of between 3 – 6 months. This is in exercise of the Governors powers under Section 212 (1) & (2) of the 1999 Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria (As amended). The approval for the release of the inmates is also in line with the commitment of Mr.Governor to decongest correctional facilities in Lagos State as part of the Justice Sector Reforms in the State. The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy in reaching it’s recommendations exercised due diligence in its deliberation of the applications brought before it in line with the applicable guidelines with information provided by the Authority of the correctional facilities, the nature of offence the inmate was convicted for, period of incarceration, age, health condition and the behavioural conduct of the inmate. The release order is to be complied with after completion of release administrative process by the correctional facilities. Signed Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN.Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.5th November, 2024.

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PRESS RELEASE: LASG HOLDS STAKEHOLDER’S MEETING TO ENHANCE COLLABORATION FOR EFFECTIVE JUSTICE DELIVERY.

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… advocates for changes in land laws to address coastal threats in the state. With the goal of improving collaborations amongst ministries and agencies in the State, the Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Justice, organized a two-day stakeholders’ meeting with MDAs, themed “Enhancing Collaboration for Effective Justice Delivery,” from Wednesday, 23rd to Thursday, 24th October, 2024, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. The meeting focused on addressing judicial challenges and promoting stronger cooperation among key institutions. The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, while officially declaring the event opened, emphasized the significance of the Ministry’s efforts in organizing the program, noting that the state government is dedicated to creating a more responsive, inclusive, and efficient justice system for the benefit of all Lagosians, regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity. He acknowledged the complexity of justice delivery, noting that the difference between African countries and other developed nations is the rule of law and its advancements in science and technology. Hamzat stated that the rule of law is increasingly becoming a subset of technology and science, as both are transforming many lives, whether we embrace it or not. The Deputy Governor expressed concern about delays in justice, citing the prolonged case of a BRT driver accused of rape and murder, which has remained unresolved for over a year. He called on participants to critically review Lagos’ judicial processes and seek lasting solutions to these inefficiencies. He also called for urgent reforms in land management laws to combat the growing threats posed by climate change, particularly in a coastal city like Lagos. He stated that Lagos, a rapidly growing coastal megacity, is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The combination of high population density, rapid urbanization, and being situated along the coast makes the city prone to flooding, land erosion, and subsidence. “The rising sea levels, along with the extreme weather patterns we are witnessing, place Lagos at significant risk of sinking in a few years if immediate action is not taken,” the Deputy Governor warned. He stressed that the existing land management system must be overhauled to mitigate these risks and ensure the future sustainability of the state. The Deputy Governor also highlighted that managing land effectively is a persistent challenge in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State. “With a complex system of land ownership, traditional land rights, and bureaucratic processes, without proper regulation and reforms in land laws, we are not just risking environmental catastrophe but also exacerbating socioeconomic inequalities,” the Deputy Governor noted. He however, proposed that new land policies must take into account climate resilience and environmental sustainability. This includes better planning to prevent overdevelopment in flood-prone areas, stricter regulations on construction near the coastline, and enhanced public awareness of the environmental consequences of unregulated land use. Furthermore, the Deputy Governor called on all stakeholders, including environmental agencies, urban planners, and community leaders, to work together in addressing these issues. He called for immediate action to reform land laws in a way that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and the long-term security of the state’s coastal communities. Speaking earlier, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, expressed his pleasure in hosting the event and underscored the importance of collaboration in the pursuit of justice. The AG stressed that the stakeholders meeting is a continuation of the discussions held earlier this year at the Y2024 Lagos Justice Summit, where recommendations were made to strengthen cooperation, transparency, and coordination among stakeholders. “The meeting will focus on several critical areas, starting with enhancing the co-ordination between law enforcement agencies and the Ministry of Justice” Pedro stated. He mentioned that one of the key areas of discussion is the growing number of cases involving the Lagos State Government that are currently pending in court. “As of July 2024, over 6,000 cases are tied to the government, spanning issues such as land disputes, physical planning, housing, road transportation, environment, chieftaincy matters, breach of contract, employment, and fundamental human rights. The financial exposure of these cases is estimated to be ₦114.5 billion”, He noted. He further stated that another session will focus on environmental and physical planning, with stakeholders from the Ministry of Environment, LASEPA, and other related agencies, discussing ways to improve service delivery in environmental management and urban development”. Proceeding to note that in the area of land administration, representatives from the Lands Bureau, NTDA, Office of the Surveyor General, and related agencies will rub minds to harmonize operations and address gaps in the enforcement of land-related laws. Pedro emphasized the need for stronger enforcement strategies while ensuring that agency actions align with existing laws and are people-friendly. Whilst drawing attention to issues related to chieftaincy matters and local government administration, the AG noted that there will be  discussions centered on the proliferation of chieftaincy titles and the involvement of traditional rulers in land transactions, as well as the increasing number of litigations surrounding these issues and finally, the future of local government administration in Lagos State will be explored, with a focus on improving efficiency and reducing conflicts. In reaffirming the State Government’s dedication to maintaining the rule of law, Pedro emphasized that delivering justice is not solely the responsibility of one institution; rather, it necessitates a collaborative effort that involves all legislative arms of government, law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, and the broader community. The opening ceremony concluded with a call for all stakeholders to engage meaningfully and contribute to building a more responsive, inclusive, and efficient justice system in Lagos State. The Ministry of Justice reaffirmed its commitment to supporting law enforcement agencies in the fight against corruption while ensuring that the rights of Lagosians are protected. Giving the vote of thanks, the Acting Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, MOJ, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, extended his appreciation to all participants, acknowledging their dedication to justice delivery and governance. In his remarks, Oyenuga  emphasized the importance of collaboration among various sectors in ensuring a more effective and transparent justice system.

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