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LAGOS MOBILE COURT HOLDS TWO-DAY RETREAT, CHARTS STRATEGIES FOR STATEWIDE EXPANSION

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The Lagos State Special Offences (Mobile) Court on Thursday commenced a two-day strategic retreat themed “The Mandate of Lagos State Special Offences (Mobile) Court; Strategies for the Path Ahead,” holding from 12th to 13th February 2026 at Amber Residence, GRA, Ikeja. In his address during the opening ceremony, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, ably represented by the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, stated that the Mobile Court was established as a decentralised, on-the-spot judicial mechanism to address the immediacy and volume of minor offences in Lagos State. He explained that the Court functions not as an exception to justice, but as an extension of the formal judicial system, firmly grounded in law, due process, and judicial oversight. Pedro further outlined the core mandate of the Mobile Court, which includes: Swift adjudication of environmental, sanitation, traffic, and public nuisance offences; Bringing justice closer to the people; Enhancing compliance and deterrence through visible enforcement amongst others. He noted that the Court handles traffic violations, environmental and sanitation offences, public order infractions, and other minor criminal matters within its jurisdiction. The AG commended the measurable impact of the Court in decongesting conventional courts, enhancing regulatory compliance, reducing repeat violations, and reinforcing the rule of law, while acknowledging that its current reach remains limited relative to the scale of infractions across the State. He therefore called for a strategic statewide expansion of the Mobile Court, improved coordination and standardization, data-driven operations, and strict adherence to due process and human rights. The Attorney General added that a strengthened Mobile Court system directly supports key pillars of the State’s development agenda, particularly transportation, environment, security, and governance. “This retreat should mark a renewed commitment to repositioning the Mobile Court as a statewide instrument of swift and fair justice, covering more areas of Lagos State, strengthening inter-agency collaboration, and sustaining public confidence”. Pedro concluded Earlier in his welcome address, the Coordinator of the Special Offences (Mobile) Court, Mr. Olufemi Adekunle, described the retreat as a timely opportunity for introspection, coordination, and strategic planning. He noted that the Mobile Court remains a critical enforcement mechanism in a fast-growing megacity like Lagos, where environmental, traffic, and public order infractions occur daily and require swift judicial intervention. According to him, the retreat is designed to re-examine the statutory mandate of the Court; assess operational challenges; strengthen inter-agency collaboration; and develop clear strategies for expanding coverage and improving efficiency. Adekunle emphasized that the effectiveness of the Mobile Court depends not only on enforcement but also on professionalism, due process, consistency in adjudication, and respect for citizens’ rights. Also speaking at the retreat, the Chairman, Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit, CSP Adetayo Akerele, reaffirmed the commitment of enforcement agencies to lawful, disciplined, and coordinated operations. He highlighted the importance of synergy between enforcement officers and judicial officers, noting that immediate judicial oversight through the Mobile Court reduces delays, discourages impunity, and strengthens public confidence in enforcement processes. CSP Akerele underscored the need for professionalism during arrest and arraignment procedures, improved documentation of cases, and strict compliance with established guidelines. He further emphasized that enforcement must be firm but fair, and that officers must operate within the confines of the law at all times. The retreat also examined the multi-agency framework supporting the Court, including collaboration with agencies such as the Lagos State Taskforce, LASTMA, LAWMA, FRSC, KAI, LAMATA, VIS, RRS, and other relevant State bodies. The two-day retreat is expected to produce actionable recommendations aimed at expanding coverage across Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas, improving operational efficiency, and strengthening the integrity and effectiveness of the Special Offences (Mobile) Court.

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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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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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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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Lagos Urges Residents to Embrace Mediation Services

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The Lagos State Government has called on residents to take full advantage of the community-based mediation services offered by the Citizens’ Mediation Bureau (CMB).‎‎Permanent Secretary of the CMB, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju, made the statement while addressing residents at the Badagry Division of the IBILE Stakeholders Meeting held on Tuesday, 2nd December 2025.‎‎She described mediation as a safe and neutral space where residents can resolve disputes without the cost, delay, or hostility often associated with litigation.‎‎Mrs. Olanrewaju explained that the government has strengthened the mediation system to continue reducing community conflicts and prevent disagreements from escalating in lagos.‎‎She added that mediators are trained annually to handle Civil matters ranging from family and landlord-tenant disputes to commercial and workplace conflicts.‎‎She urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and local officials to encourage residents to make use of the Bureau’s services rather than resort to self-help, emphasizing that grassroots peace remains a major priority for the State Government.‎‎Keynote speaker, Mrs. Kehinde Taiwo, speaking on the theme “Mediation in Challenging Times – Building Peaceful Communities Through Dialogue,” described the forum as a clarion call for urgent action. She stressed that building peace is not the government’s sole responsibility; every resident has a role to play.‎‎According to her, if community leaders, religious leaders, market women, youth, and families actively promote peace, Lagos will continue to serve as a model of harmony and peaceful communities.‎‎Also speaking, Aholu Whenton, the 1st De Yeyi of Ajara Topa, Topa Kingdom, Badagry, Aholu Samuel Amosu Owolabani commended the Bureau’s efforts in promoting peace across Lagos.‎‎He pledged continued collaboration and promised to further raise awareness among residents about the mediation services.

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Lagos Urges Residents to Embrace Mediation Services

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‎The Lagos State Government has called on residents to take full advantage of the community-based mediation services offered by the Citizens’ Mediation Bureau (CMB).‎‎Permanent Secretary of the CMB, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju, made the statement while addressing residents at the Badagry Division of the IBILE Stakeholders Meeting held on Tuesday, 2nd December 2025.‎‎She described mediation as a safe and neutral space where residents can resolve disputes without the cost, delay, or hostility often associated with litigation.‎‎Mrs. Olanrewaju explained that the government has strengthened the mediation system to continue reducing community conflicts and prevent disagreements from escalating in lagos.‎‎She added that mediators are trained annually to handle Civil matters ranging from family and landlord-tenant disputes to commercial and workplace conflicts.‎‎She urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and local officials to encourage residents to make use of the Bureau’s services rather than resort to self-help, emphasizing that grassroots peace remains a major priority for the State Government.‎‎Keynote speaker, Mrs. Kehinde Taiwo, speaking on the theme “Mediation in Challenging Times – Building Peaceful Communities Through Dialogue,” described the forum as a clarion call for urgent action. She stressed that building peace is not the government’s sole responsibility; every resident has a role to play.‎‎According to her, if community leaders, religious leaders, market women, youth, and families actively promote peace, Lagos will continue to serve as a model of harmony and peaceful communities.‎‎Also speaking, Aholu Whenton, the 1st De Yeyi of Ajara Topa, Topa Kingdom, Badagry, Aholu Samuel Amosu Owolabani commended the Bureau’s efforts in promoting peace across Lagos.‎‎He pledged continued collaboration and promised to further raise awareness among residents about the mediation services.

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CMB Flags Off 2025 Stakeholders’ Meeting, Sensitization Campaign Across Lagos

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The Citizens’ Mediation Bureau (CMB) has commenced its 2025 IBILE Stakeholders’ Meeting and Sensitization Campaign across the metropolis.‎‎The Theme of the campaign is “Mediation in Challenging Times: Building Peaceful Communities Through Dialogue,”.‎‎The forum which provides opportunities for key actors and other stakeholders in different communities to come together to strengthen peace building across the state kicked off in Ikorodu on Wednesday, 26th November 2025.‎‎Speaking at the event, the pioneer Permanent Secretary of the Citizens’ Mediation Bureau, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju, emphasized that the meeting was designed to deepen collaboration across the five divisions of the state known as IBILE while addressing emerging conflict trends affecting families, neighbourhoods, and businesses.‎‎She also highlighted the increasing necessity of mediation as Lagos continues its rapid expansion, and evolution, noting that issues such as family disagreements, landlord-tenant disputes, workplace crisis, and commercial or monetary claims are now on the rise.‎‎According to her “Mediation remains a reliable alternative to courtroom litigation as it saves time, resources, and preserves relationships,” Mrs. Olanrewaju stated.‎‎The CMB’s success underscores the government’s commitment to making justice accessible and efficient for all residents”.‎‎In line with the theme, The keynote speaker, Mrs. Omotola Rotimi, former Director of the CMB, provided attendees with practical insights into conflict resolution techniques and the crucial process of de-escalation.‎‎Mr. Ade Ayeni, Vice Chairman of Igbogbo Bayeku LCDA, urged residents to discontinue self-help methods and utilize the CMB’s established and accessible services to address their grievances.‎‎ The Royal Father of the Day, Oba Semiudeen Orimadegun Kasali, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom, appreciated the CMB’s outreach. He emphasized that the Igbogbo community prioritizes effective conflict resolution, which has been instrumental in maintaining local peace and harmony.‎‎The commencement of the sensitization campaign marks the beginning of a broader effort by the CMB to ensure every resident is aware of and can access its free and confidential dispute resolution services.‎‎The sensitization flag-off brought together a diverse group of key stakeholders, including members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), traditional leaders, local government officials, and community residents, including market women and men.

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