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Lagos State Ministry of Justice

PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOJ HOSTS KANO STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO UNDERSTUDY MINISTRY’S STRUCTURE AND OPERATIONS

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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice on Friday 6th of February, 2026 hosted the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kano State, Barr. Abdukarim Kabiru-Maude SAN, and his delegates on a courtesy and technical visit to understudy the Ministry’s structure, operations, and institutional framework at its Conference Room, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. Welcoming the delegation, the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, described the visit as a strategic platform for knowledge sharing and peer learning, noting that Lagos State remains committed to supporting justice sector reforms through openness, collaboration, and the exchange of best practices. Representing the Attorney-General, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, gave a detailed overview of the Ministry’s departments, units, and agencies, outlining their respective roles and functions. He highlighted the operational structure, coordination mechanisms, and ongoing reforms designed to enhance efficiency and effective service delivery, stressing that continuous innovation and capacity building are central to the Ministry’s mandate. Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kano State, Barr. Abdulkarim Kabiru-Maude SAN, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and professionalism of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice. He noted that the visit was informed by Lagos State’s reputation as a leading authority in justice sector administration, adding that the delegation was keen to understudy its institutional processes, policy execution strategies, and service delivery models. He further affirmed Kano State’s commitment to strengthening its justice system through strategic partnerships and sustained engagement, noting that lessons drawn from the visit would support ongoing reforms and institutional development in the state. During her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary Citizen Mediation Bureau, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju, expressed appreciation to the Lagos Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, for his leadership and support, as well as the visiting delegation led by the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Kano State for the fruitful engagement and knowledge-sharing session. Olanrewaju noted that the visit further reinforced the Ministry’s commitment to collaboration and institutional learning, adding that Lagos State remains open to sustained partnerships with sister states aimed at strengthening justice sector administration and service delivery nationwide. The visit featured interactive sessions, presentations, and engagements with key departments of the Ministry, bolstering a shared commitment to collaboration, capacity enhancement, and effective justice delivery.

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LAGOS MOJ HOSTS CANADIAN DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE ON KNOWLEDGE-SHARING COLLABORATION.

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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice on Monday, 2nd of February, 2026, hosted a delegation from the Department of Justice, Canada, led by Co-Director of Canada-Nigeria Justice Cooperation Project, Genevieve Westrope; on an official visit aimed at deepening understanding of the Ministry’s mandate, institutional framework, and key initiatives within the criminal justice system. The visit formed part of an international knowledge-sharing engagement focused on criminal offences and prosecution processes, with particular emphasis on gender-based violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. In his address, the Lagos Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, thanked the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his unwavering support of the justice sector and for providing the enabling environment required for institutional growth, reform, and effective prosecution of criminal offences. He spoke extensively on the Ministry’s role in the prosecution of criminal matters, highlighting its sustained efforts in combating gender-based violence, protecting children from abuse, and addressing human trafficking through coordinated legal and institutional responses. Pedro emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration, capacity building, and victim-centred approaches in achieving justice outcomes that are fair, timely, and impactful. He also acknowledged the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs for its critical role in facilitating the visit, noting that its partnership and advocacy were central to the Department of Justice, Canada’s engagement with Lagos State. According to him, such collaboration underscores the value of collective action in addressing crimes that disproportionately affect women, children and the vulnerable. Welcoming the delegation earlier, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, gave an overview of the Ministry’s structure, core responsibilities, and ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening justice delivery in Lagos State. Oyenuga expressed delight at the visit, describing it as an important opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build mutual understanding between both jurisdictions. The Permanent Secretary noted that the Ministry remains committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration in the administration of justice. Co-Director of Canada-Nigeria Justice Cooperation Project, Genevieve Westrope; expressed appreciation for the warm reception, noting that prior to the visit, the delegation had been informed in Abuja that Lagos State is a leading authority in the justice sector and a jurisdiction that clearly understands and effectively executes its justice mandate. She commended the Ministry’s commitment to justice sector reform, inter-agency collaboration, and the protection of vulnerable groups, and acknowledged the openness and professionalism demonstrated throughout the engagement. The interactive session allowed for robust discussions on prosecutorial practices, legal safeguards, policy frameworks, and enforcement challenges, while also exploring opportunities for future cooperation and learning. The event, held at Zen Garden, Isaac John, Lagos, underscored the Lagos State Ministry of Justice’s commitment to institutional learning, strategic partnerships, and the strengthening of the criminal justice system, while reaffirming its dedication to upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and ensuring justice for all residents of Lagos State.

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PRESS RELEASE: JUSTICE ON WHEELS LAGOS SENSITIZES RESIDENTS ON TRAFFIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS

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As part of its ongoing efforts to educate members of the public on compliance with environmental and traffic laws, the Lagos State Government, through the Special Offences (Mobile) Court, on Friday, 30th January 2025, conducted a public sensitization programme at the Lagos Safety Arena and other key locations including Oshodi, Iyana Ipaja, Ojota, and Ikorodu. The sensitization exercise, themed “Justice on Wheels: Know the Law, Keep Lagos Clean, Safe and Orderly,” focused on key areas including one-way violations, misuse of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lanes, and obstruction of public spaces. The Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, ably represented by the Director, Citizens’ Rights, Mr. Ogunsanya Jonathan, emphasized the State Government’s commitment to justice, stating that it is accessible, corrective, and people-centered. “The Mobile Court is not only an instrument of enforcement but also a vital platform for public education. Through sensitization exercises like this, we seek to prevent infractions by ensuring that citizens clearly understand their rights, responsibilities, and the consequences of violating the law,” he said. Mr. Pedro further reiterated that the Lagos State Government remains resolute in adopting lawful and humane approaches to strengthen civic responsibility and uphold the rule of law across the State. Earlier, the Coordinator of the Special Offences (Mobile) Court, Mr. Olufemi Adekunle, explained that the sensitization programme was designed to bridge the information gap between the justice system and the public. “Our goal is to reduce avoidable offences by bringing legal knowledge directly to the people. When citizens understand the law, compliance becomes easier and enforcement less necessary,” he said. Also speaking at the event, the Chairman, Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences, CSP Adetayo Akerele, stated that environmental cleanliness and traffic discipline are central to public safety in Lagos State. He stressed that offences such as obstruction, misuse of BRT lanes, and driving against traffic undermine the State’s efforts to keep Lagos clean, safe, and orderly, urging residents to comply with existing laws for the collective good of all. The event featured interactive engagements with the public at various bus stops, distribution of fliers, and practical explanations of common offences and penalties handled by the Special Offences (Mobile) Court. Members of the public were encouraged to comply with traffic regulations, uphold environmental cleanliness, and carry out their daily activities in accordance with the law, as the Ministry of Justice remains committed to promoting a just, orderly, and law-abiding State.

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PRESS RELEASE – MOJ REWARDS OUTSTANDING OFFICERS, CELEBRATES RETIREES

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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice (MOJ) on Tuesday, 30 December 2025, rewarded outstanding officers who demonstrated exceptional commitment and diligence in the discharge of their duties throughout the year. The ceremony, held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, also featured a special celebration of members of staff who retired meritoriously from the service of the State. Speaking at the Ministry’s Year 2025 Merit Awards and End-of-Year Ceremony, the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, commended the award recipients and all members of staff for their unwavering dedication to duty. He noted that the Ministry’s effective leadership and recorded successes are a product of collective effort, teamwork, and collaboration among staff across departments, units, and agencies. According to the Attorney-General, the relative peace, orderliness, and safety currently enjoyed in Lagos State are largely attributable to the diligence and professionalism of law enforcement officers, prosecutors, legislative drafters, and other justice sector stakeholders. Mr. Pedro charged staff to continually evaluate their performance, make necessary improvements where required, and strive for higher standards of excellence in the coming year. He congratulated the award winners and urged them to sustain their commitment to excellence, stressing that only the best is acceptable in service to the people of Lagos State. The Attorney-General also celebrated the retiring officers for their years of dedicated and meritorious service, describing their contributions to the Ministry and the State as invaluable and worthy of recognition. In his remarks, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, expressed delight at the impressive turnout of staff, noting that the merit awards serve as a morale booster and a catalyst for enhanced productivity. He congratulated the award recipients and encouraged them to put in even greater effort in the year ahead, adding that the reward for hard work is more work. Mr. Oyenuga also paid glowing tribute to the retirees, applauding their dedication and the lasting legacy of service they leave behind. Awards were presented in both senior and junior categories, with winners emerging from various departments, units, and agencies within the Ministry.

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PRESS RELEASE – LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT SECURES CONVICTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL OFFENDER.

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… Reiterates Zero Tolerance for Environmental Offences. The Lagos State Government has secured the conviction of Makinde Rasaq before the Special Offenses (Mobile Court) sitting at Bolade, Oshodi for multiple environmental offences, contrary to the provisions of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017, and other applicable laws. The defendant, Makinde Rasaq (48), was arraigned and convicted on seven counts; bordering on conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace; indiscriminate dumping and disposal of refuse at unauthorised locations including roads, sidewalks, streets, and vacant lands; failure to patronise an approved Private Sector Participation (PSP) waste operator; managing and transporting waste in a manner detrimental to the environment; operating waste collection, transportation, and disposal services without a valid licence; and obstructing authorised government officials in the lawful execution of their duties, all contrary to the relevant provisions of the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law, 2017. The defendant was found guilty on seven (7) counts, with the court handing down the following sentences: Count 1: One (1) month community service or one (1) month at a correctional centre.Count 2: Two (2) months community service or three (3) months at a correctional centre.Count 3: Two (2) months community service or three (3) months at a correctional centre.Count 4: Two (2) months community service or three (3) months at a correctional centre.Count 5: Two (2) months community service or three (3) months at a correctional centre.Count 6: Three (3) months community service or two (2) months at a correctional centre.Count 7: Two (2) months of community service or three (3) months at a correctional centre. The court ordered that all sentences shall run consecutively, subject to the option exercised by the convict. The prosecution was led by Olufemi Adekunle, appearing with Oluwabusola Omotunde, on behalf of the State. In delivering his judgment, the Presiding Magistrate, Justice F.J Adefioye, warned that environmental offences pose serious risks to public health and safety, stressing that the courts will continue to support government efforts to curb indiscriminate waste disposal and illegal waste operations. The Lagos State Government reiterates its zero tolerance for environmental degradation, illegal waste disposal, unlicensed waste activities, and obstruction of environmental enforcement officers. Residents and business operators are advised to patronise only approved PSP operators and comply fully with all environmental regulations to avoid sanctions.

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MOJ ORGANIZES 3 DAYS MS OFFICE SUITE AND AI TRAINING FOR OFFICERS

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…Participants Urged to Apply Digital Skills for Enhanced Service Delivery. The Lagos State Ministry of Justice (MOJ), through its Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Department, has successfully organized and concluded a three-day MS Office Suite and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Training Programme, held from Wednesday, 17th December to Friday, 19th December, 2025 at the Ministry’s Conference room, Secretariat, Alausa. The capacity-building programme was organised to strengthen the digital competence of staff and enhance efficiency in official documentation, data management, communication, and creative content development within the Ministry. The training, facilitated by an expert, Mr. Williams Mayowa, with core areas of competence in Microsoft Office applications, Artificial Intelligence tools, and Canva (design), exposed participants to practical and contemporary digital solutions aimed at improving productivity and workflow across departments. Speaking during the programme, the Director, ICT Department, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Johnson encouraged participants to make effective and responsible use of the knowledge and skills acquired, noting that digital proficiency is critical to achieving optimal performance and supporting the Ministry’s mandate in the delivery of justice. Olufunmilayo noted that the training was designed not only to improve technical capacity but also to promote innovation, adaptability, and the adoption of emerging technologies in public service operations. The programme concluded with closing remarks by the Director, Administration and Human Resources, Mrs Fagbohun, who commended the ICT Department for organizing the training while urging the participants to translate the lessons learnt into measurable improvements in their daily duties. She further reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to continuous staff development and capacity enhancement. Participants expressed appreciation to the Ministry for the initiative, describing the training as timely, impactful, and relevant to modern public sector demands. The Lagos State Ministry of Justice remains committed to leveraging technology and continuous learning to strengthen institutional capacity and improve service delivery to the public.

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PEDRO INAUGURATES 114 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCAL PERSONS, LNSC DESK OFFICERS AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING

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Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, today inaugurated 114 Local Government Focal Persons and Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) Anti-Human Trafficking Desk Officers for the Lagos State Task Force Against Human Trafficking, reinforcing the State’s commitment to combating human trafficking at the grassroots. The inauguration, held at the DMO Office, Alausa, Ikeja is part of the strategic efforts of the Lagos State Government under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to strengthen prevention, early detection, and response mechanisms at the Local Government level. Mr. Pedro explained that Heads of Legal Units in all the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas have been designated as Local Government Focal Persons for the Task Force, while Anti-Human Trafficking Officers of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps have been appointed as Desk Officers in their respective jurisdictions. According to the Attorney-General, the framework promotes coordination, clarity of roles, and accountability by integrating legal oversight with operational capacity and community intelligence at the local level. He charged the appointees to be vigilant, proactive, and responsive, stressing that the appointments carry responsibility rather than titles. He emphasised early identification of trafficking risks, prompt reporting of suspected cases, effective referrals in line with approved procedures, and sustained engagement with community leaders and grassroots institutions. Mr. Pedro assured the officers of the State Government’s continued support through policy direction, coordination, and capacity building. Speaking earlier,the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, represented by the Director, Directorate for Citizens Rights, Mr. Johnson Ogunsanya, stated that the inauguration was anchored in the 2025 Workplan of the Lagos State Task Force Against Human Trafficking and reflected the State’s deliberate policy direction to combat human trafficking in a coordinated and community-responsive manner. Also speaking, the Lagos Zonal Commander of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP),represented by Mrs Hàjarat Tunde -Osho, commended Lagos State for strengthening its grassroots response, describing the Lagos State Task Force Against Human Trafficking as a critical pillar in the national response to trafficking in persons. She noted that the Task Force model has been replicated in 24 states of the Federation. She recalled that the inauguration fulfilled a commitment made by the Attorney-General and Chairman of the Task Force, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, in December 2023, and praised the State Government for matching policy intent with concrete action. In his briefing, the Task Force Coordinator, Mr. Olamide Ibrahim, explained that the operational framework was designed to strengthen grassroots collaboration without creating parallel systems or disrupting existing command structures. ‎He clarified that while Local Government Focal Persons serve as coordination points at the local level, LNSC Desk Officers would continue to operate strictly within the established command structure of the Neighbourhood Safety Corps. The event concluded with the formal undertaking of commitment by the 114 appointees, followed by their official inauguration by the Attorney-General.

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PEDRO RECEIVES RACC, STAFF OF ICPC, LAGOS

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Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, on Wednesday 10th December 2025, received the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner (RACC), Lagos State, Mr. Alexander Chukwurah, and Staff of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on a courtesy visit at the Ministry of Justice, Alausa, Ikeja. The visit was aimed at strengthening institutional collaboration between the ICPC and the Lagos State Ministry of Justice in advancing anti-corruption initiatives, particularly in the areas of investigation, prosecution, and public enlightenment. Mr. Pedro commended the ICPC for its role in promoting transparency and accountability and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to sustained inter-agency cooperation in the fight against corruption. He assured the delegation of the Ministry’s continued support, while Mr. Chukwurah expressed appreciation for the audience and reiterated the ICPC’s readiness to deepen partnership with the Ministry to enhance integrity and public confidence in the justice system. Also in attendance includes the Solicitor General/Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, Directors and State Counsel of the State Ministry of Justice.

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LAGOS CELEBRATES WORLD HUMAN RIGHTS DAY

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…Governor Approves Release of 91 Inmates‎‎In commemoration of the 2025 World Human Rights Day,the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has approved the release of 91 inmates as part of the State Government’s commitment to the rule of law and the protection of fundamental human rights.‎‎The Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, made this announcement during a press briefing on Wednesday, December 10, emphasizing the importance of global collaboration in advancing the promotion and protection of human rights.‎‎In his address, the Attorney-General noted that every December 10, the global community reflects on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)—a foundational document that continues to guide democratic societies in entrenching the rule of law.‎‎He explained that this year’s theme, “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials,” serves as a timely reminder that fundamental rights are not privileges reserved for a few, but essential entitlements necessary for the safety, dignity, and well-being of every individual.‎‎Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Mr. Pedro recalled the nation’s transition from prolonged military rule in 1999—a period marked by suspended constitutional rights, restricted access to justice, arbitrary arrests, detentions without trial, suppression of free speech, and weakened democratic institutions. He added that this transition led to the establishment of the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights (DCR) by the Lagos State Government.‎‎According to the Commissioner, the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights has become a key pillar of the Lagos State justice system and now handles a broad range of matters—including tenancy disputes, children’s rights, unlawful detention, family issues, workplace grievances, debtor–creditor cases, and the protection of persons living with HIV—resolving most through mediation.‎‎“In the past year, the Directorate received about 1,950 petitions, mediated 1,200 cases, and is currently handling 50 fundamental rights suits involving police misconduct, unlawful detention, property disputes, and parental access,” he added.‎‎In furtherance of the State Government’s amnesty initiative to mark the 2025 Human Rights Day, the Commissioner announced that Governor Sanwo-Olu, acting on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, has exercised his power of clemency for the release of convicts who have served more than 75% of their sentences in correctional facilities.‎A total of 91 inmates will benefit from the gesture: 80 are to be released immediately,6 by January 31, 2026,3 by February 28, 2026,1 by March 31, 2026, and 1 by April 30, 2026.‎‎He added that two convicts on death row have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment.‎‎Mr. Pedro expressed appreciation to the Governor for his unwavering support for the justice system, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights in Lagos State. He also urged residents to obey laws and regulations and to collaborate with the Government in building a just, peaceful, and inclusive society.

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