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Lagos State Ministry of Justice

LAGOS ATTORNEY GENERAL RECEIVES AIG FCID ANNEX, LAGOS.

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….PLEDGES DEEPER COLLABORATION TO STRENGTHEN CRIMINAL JUSTICE DELIVERY The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, has reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) to enhance criminal investigations, prosecution and the overall administration of justice in Lagos State. The Attorney General gave the assurance on Wednesday 23 July, 2026 while receiving the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Lagos, AIG Simeon U. Akpanudom, psc, fdc, mspsp, MNIM, and members of his management team on a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Alausa, Ikeja. Welcoming the delegation, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, described the visit as a reflection of the strong and enduring relationship between the Lagos State Ministry of Justice and the Nigeria Police Force. He noted that effective criminal justice administration thrives on collaboration among justice sector institutions and expressed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening inter-agency cooperation to ensure the prompt investigation, prosecution and resolution of criminal cases in the State. Speaking during the visit, AIG Akpanudom acknowledged the existing cordial relationship between the Ministry and the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) and called for deeper institutional collaboration to address challenges affecting the criminal justice system. He identified delays in the issuance of legal advice as a natural consequence of the volume and complexity of cases handled by the Ministry and stressed the need for sustained engagement to improve efficiency. The AIG also advocated greater forensic support to aid criminal investigations and proposed regular joint training programmes involving police investigators, prosecutors and officers of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to strengthen case preparation, evidence gathering and prosecution. Responding, the Attorney General welcomed the proposals and expressed the Ministry’s readiness to partner with the Nigeria Police Force (FCID) on continuous capacity-building initiatives. He noted that regular joint training sessions would further strengthen synergy between investigators and prosecutors, leading to more effective case management and improved justice delivery. Mr. Pedro disclosed that the Ministry is making significant investments in modernising criminal justice administration through the Lagos Criminal Information System (LCIS), which continues to improve case tracking and coordination among justice sector institutions. He recalled that the forensic laboratory was destroyed during the #EndSARS unrest, prompting the temporary conversion of the facility’s canteen into a laboratory pending the reconstruction of the main building. He added that the project is nearing completion and will soon be fully operational. The Attorney General also highlighted the establishment of modern statement rooms equipped with audio-visual recording facilities to ensure greater transparency, accountability and professionalism in the taking of statements during investigations. While acknowledging existing resource constraints, Mr. Pedro commended the dedication of officers across the justice sector, noting that the Ministry remains committed to maximising available resources while continuously pursuing reforms that improve service delivery. Addressing the persistent challenge of land grabbing, the Attorney General urged residents of Lagos State to refrain from resorting to self-help or violence in resolving property disputes. Pedro advised aggrieved persons to channel their complaints through the Office of the Attorney General and seek redress through the courts, emphasising that lawful dispute resolution remains the surest means of protecting property rights and preserving public order. He reiterated that stronger cooperation between the Ministry of Justice and the FCID remains essential to ensuring timely investigations, effective prosecutions and the successful implementation of criminal justice reforms in Lagos State. Delivering the vote of thanks, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, expressed appreciation to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, AIG Simeon U. Akpanudom, and his delegation for the thoughtful visit. He described the engagement as a testament to the enduring partnership between the Nigeria Police Force and the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, expressing confidence that the strengthened collaboration would further enhance criminal justice administration, uphold the rule of law, and contribute to a safer Lagos.

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LAGOS ATTORNEY GENERAL CHARGES STATE COUNSEL ON EXCELLENCE, INNOVATION AND JUSTICE SECTOR REFORM

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As Ministry Holds 2026 Mid-Year Meeting with State Counsel The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, on Friday 19, June 2026, hosted State Counsel across Lagos State for the 2026 Mid-Year Meeting, themed: “Enhancing Service Delivery, Professional Excellence, and Justice Sector Reform.” at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa. The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, has called on State Counsel in the Ministry of Justice to recommit themselves to excellence, professionalism, innovation and accountability in the discharge of their duties, stressing that the administration of justice remains central to good governance and public service delivery. Delivering the keynote address, the Attorney General described the Ministry of Justice as the principal legal institution of the Lagos State Government, entrusted with the responsibility of promoting justice, upholding the rule of law, and providing efficient, accessible and responsive legal services to government and its Ministries, Departments and Agencies. According to him, the Ministry occupies a central position in the governance architecture of Lagos State through its roles in legislative development, law reform, dispute resolution, criminal and civil justice administration, as well as the protection and promotion of citizens’ rights. The A.G emphasized the far-reaching impact of the work undertaken by State Counsel, reminding participants that every legal opinion rendered, case prosecuted or defended, law drafted and dispute resolved ultimately affects the lives of millions of Lagosians. Reiterating the human dimension of legal practice, he stated that “every file on your table has a soul in it,” explaining that behind every brief, memorandum, case file or policy document is a person, family, business or community whose rights and future may be shaped by the decisions and actions of legal officers. Pedro stressed the need for continuous performance review and accountability across all Directorates and Departments, adding that strategic engagements would be held with heads of directorates and senior officers before the end of the year to strengthen institutional effectiveness and enhance capacity building. He also encouraged State Counsel to embrace technological innovations transforming legal practice globally, including e-filing systems, virtual hearings, digital records management, legal research technologies and artificial intelligence, while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, data protection and cybersecurity. Whilst making emphasis on the culture of mentorship between senior and junior counsel, AG urged younger lawyers to actively pursue learning and professional development, noting that leadership opportunities within the Ministry would continue to be based on competence, integrity, commitment, and performance. Pedro reaffirmed his vision of positioning the Lagos State Ministry of Justice as Nigeria’s leading public law office, while highlighting the achievements of the Ministry’s distinguished alumni in the legal profession, judiciary, and public service. Also speaking, Hon. Justice Iyabo Muyibat Oshodi of the Lagos State High Court encouraged State Counsel to remain steadfast and committed to excellence, reminding them that she once walked the same corridors and served within the Ministry of Justice before her elevation to the Bench. Drawing from her personal and professional journey, she urged officers not to become discouraged by challenges or periods when their efforts appear unnoticed, stressing that every act of diligence and professionalism contributes to future success. Justice Oshodi further explained that the principle of harvest remains constant, noting that individuals inevitably reap the rewards of the seeds they sow through dedication, integrity and hard work. Speaking earlier, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, described the meeting as an important platform for reflection, engagement and professional development. He noted that the gathering provided an opportunity to review the Ministry’s performance during the first half of the year, assess ongoing initiatives, identify challenges and strengthen institutional capacity for improved service delivery. Oyenuga said the meeting underscores the Ministry’s commitment to efficiency, accountability, innovation, and improved legal service delivery, urging participants to maximize the opportunity for professional growth and effective service. Delivering her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary, Citizens Mediation Bureau, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju, expressed appreciation to the Attorney General, speakers, panelists and participants for their contributions towards the success of the meeting. The meeting also featured interactive sessions with distinguished panelists, including Professor of Law, University of Lagos, Prof. Akeem Bello; Former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ogun State, Mr. Gbolahan Adeniran; Partner, Africa Law Practice, Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okunsanya, SAN; and Lead Partner, Priory Terrace Solicitors, Mr. Lanre Akinsola, SAN, who shared valuable insights on leadership, professional development, integrity, career progression and public service within the justice sector. The 2026 Mid-Year Meeting with State Counsel was convened to provide an opportunity for the Honourable Attorney General of Lagos State,Mr Lawal Pedro ,SAN,to engage directly with State Counsel on the Ministry’s performance during the first half of the year, discuss strategic priorities for the remainder of the year, and reinforce the Ministry’s commitment to service delivery, professional excellence, accountability and justice sector reform. The programme featured distinguished former officers of the Ministry and legal experts who have attained remarkable heights in the legal profession and public service who shared valuable insights on leadership, professional development, integrity and career progression.

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CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: LAGOS MOJ HOLDS RECEPTION IN HONOUR OF FORMER DPP, DR. BABAJIDE OLUMUYIWA MARTINS ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS PERMANENT SECRETARY, BUREAU OF THE PUBLIC DEFENDER

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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice held a reception in honour of the appointment of Dr. Babajide Olumuyiwa Martins as pioneer Permanent Secretary of one of its key agencies ,the Bureau of the Public Defender.(BPD) on Friday, 24th April 2026, recognising his distinguished service, professionalism, and commitment to justice sector reforms. The well-attended event, held at the Conference Room of the Ministry at the State Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, brought together government officials, members of the Bar and Bench, as well as family, friends, and colleagues to celebrate this remarkable achievement. In his remarks, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, described Dr Martins as a seasoned legal practitioner and administrator whose wealth of experience will be instrumental in advancing the Ministry’s mandate. He reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring effective justice delivery for all residents of Lagos State. Earlier, in her welcome address, the Permanent Secretary, Citizens Mediation Bureau, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju, commended Dr. Martins for his exemplary career trajectory, noting that his appointment is a testament to his dedication, competence, and unwavering commitment to public service. She expressed confidence in Dr. Martins’ capacity to further strengthen institutional efficiency and drive impactful reforms within the Ministry. In his response, Dr. Babajide Olumuyiwa Martins expressed profound gratitude to God, the Lagos State Government, and all well-wishers for the honour. He also extended his sincere appreciation to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu; the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro; the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN; and the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, for their unwavering support, guidance, and confidence in his capacity to serve. Dr. Martins pledged to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, diligence, and service, while working collaboratively with all stakeholders to enhance the administration of justice in the State. Goodwill messages were delivered by Hon.Judges of the high court of Lagos State, Directors,Friends and family members,State Counsel ,and other professional colleagues, all of whom highlighted Dr. Martins’ integrity, diligence, generosity and leadership qualities that have distinguished him over the years. The appointment of Dr. Martins represents a significant milestone in the history of the State Ministry of Justice, as he becomes the Pioneer Permanent Secretary of the Bureau of the Public Defender and Second Permanent Secretary appointed within one year by the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for agencies under the Ministry of Justice (MOJ).

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LAGOS IS READY TO PROSECUTE ENVIRONMENTAL OFFENDERS

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The Lagos State Special Offences (Mobile) Court was established on the mandate of addressing flagrant abuse of environmental and other related offences, with the intent to dispense justice by bringing offenders in line with extant laws and regulations in the State. This was affirmed by the Coordinator of Lagos State Special Offences (Mobile) Court, Mr. Olufemi Adekunle. He stated this at the monthly technical meeting of the agency on the return of Monthly Sanitation Exercise. He said that the establishment of the Mobile Court was fueled by the increasing surge in environmental offences and reiterated the government zero-tolerance stance on environmental infractions such as illegal dumping of refuse, blockage of drainage channels, and failure to patronize approved waste management operators. He affirmed that residents or organizations found violating the regulations will be prosecuted accordingly..He further said that the Mobile Court is ready to prosecute individuals or organizations who flout environmental sanitation laws, putting the public at risk, and that anyone found guilty of littering, dumping waste improperly, or other sanitation infractions would face the full weight of the law. Finally, he urged everyone to comply with the laws by disposing waste properly, cleanliness of the environment and avoiding littering and dumping of waste in drainage, or engaging in activities that could harm the environment. JIDE AJIBOLAHEAD, PUBLIC AFFAIRS UNIT.

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LAGOS MOJ PARTICIPATES IN UK-LED NON-CUSTODIAL SENTENCING TRAINING

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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice participated in a specialised training on Non-Custodial Sentencing hosted by the United Kingdom Ministry of Justice on Tuesday, 31st March 2026, at the Kingfisher Club, Ikoyi, Lagos. The training, an initiative of the UK Ministry of Justice, forms part of ongoing collaboration between both jurisdictions aimed at strengthening criminal justice administration through knowledge exchange and institutional capacity building. Representing the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, the Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins, expressed his appreciation to the UK Home Office Team in Nigeria and the UK Ministry of Justice for their continued partnership and commitment to justice sector reforms in Lagos State. Dr. Martins noted that the training comes at a critical time when the State is intensifying efforts to promote alternative sentencing frameworks as a means of decongesting correctional facilities and ensuring a more rehabilitative approach to justice delivery. “This collaboration is both timely and impactful, as it provides practical insights into probation systems, offender management, and non-custodial sentencing options that can be effectively adapted to our local context”. He further commended the facilitators for delivering a comprehensive and insightful training, highlighting the importance of continued engagement and institutional partnerships in achieving sustainable justice sector reforms. In his remarks, he stated that the Lagos State Ministry of Justice remains committed to adopting progressive and internationally recognised best practices in the administration of justice. The training, facilitated by senior UK probation practitioners including; Head of Essex North Probation Service,Mr. David Messam; and Head of Liverpool South Probation Service, Ms. Emma Davies; covered key areas such as probation structure and governance, offender management in the community, non-custodial sentencing options, and support systems within the probation framework in England and Wales. Participants at the training included State Counsel, Magistrates, and Directors in the Ministry, all of whom actively engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening the implementation of non-custodial sentencing in Lagos State.

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LAGOS AG RECEIVES ECAPI ANTI-CRIME GRAND PATRON AWARD, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO STRATEGIC COLLABORATION

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The Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, has reaffirmed the Lagos State Ministry of Justice’s commitment to strengthening strategic collaboration with relevant stakeholders in crime prevention and public safety. Mr. Pedro gave this assurance on Thursday, 2nd April 2026, while receiving the ECAPI Anti-Crime Grand Patron Award from the Eagle Crime Awareness & Prevention Initiative (ECAPI) during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Justice Conference Room, Alausa, Ikeja. The Attorney General expressed appreciation for the recognition, noting that partnerships with civil society organisations remain critical to advancing public awareness, improving access to justice, and enhancing community-based crime approaches to tackling crime. Pedro reiterated the Ministry’s openness to strategic collaborations that will further strengthen the justice system and promote a safer Lagos. Presenting the award, the President and Founder of ECAPI, Amb. Samuel Adam, stated that the honour was conferred in recognition of the Attorney General’s exemplary leadership, unwavering commitment to justice sector reforms, and significant contributions to crime prevention and public safety. He commended Mr. Pedro’s impactful leadership and assured the Ministry of the organisation’s readiness to collaborate in furtherance of shared objectives in crime prevention and public enlightenment.

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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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