Lagos State Ministry of Justice

    Oshodi-Isolo Residents Declare Zero Tolerance to All Forms Of Sexual And Gender Based Violence

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    Residents of Oshodi Isolo Local Government have declared a zero tolerance to all forms of Sexual  and Gender based violence in the State.This declaration was made during the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence outreach to Oshodi Isolo local government in a bid to address the rising cases of domestic and sexual violence across the State The town hall meeting themed “It’s on us to End Sexual and Gender-Based Violence” which took place at Oshodi Isolo local government on Wednesday,23rd of March, 2022 is designed to heighten awareness about domestic and sexual violence amongst members of the community, inform them of the provisions of the laws and support services available for victims and survivors. Addressing the gathering, the Executive Secretary of DSVA, Mrs Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi reiterated the need for all participants to see themselves as mandated reporters, charging them that if they see something, they have a duty to say something and do something. She emphasized that the goal of the outreach is to raise awareness about sexual and gender-based violence, as well as issues regarding child abuse whilst making reference to DSVA’s data over the years of the increase in formal and informal reporting of incidents of rape, domestic violence and child abuse from Oshodi-Isolo LGA. The Chairman of Oshodi Isolo Local Government, Hon. Kayode Oloyede Almaroof who was ably represented by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Mrs. Modupe Badmus encouraged people  to speak up if they are subjected to violence in their relationships in order to curb the rate of violence in the society. She added that parents especially mothers should always pay attention and listen to their children so that they can confide in them when they face abuse. At the town hall meeting, A survivor of domestic violence who pleaded anonymity shared her story of intimate partner violence of how she had experienced various forms of abuse including physical, emotional, and financial abuse by her spouse. She however revealed how she was able to overcome these obstacles with the assistance of the DSVA and has now become empowered and has  empowered others as well. She noted that all her children including the females who faced discrimination by her husband not to further their education because of their gender are now educated. Mrs. Atinuke Odukoya, the Executive Director of the Centre for Women’s Health Information, enlightened the audience on the various forms of Sexual and Gender Based violence whilst urging people to stop victim blaming as this could discourage victims from reporting incidences of violence. Rather she encouraged residents of Oshodi Isolo to be active bystanders and expose abusers. On her part, Dr Obasanya, Adolescent Focal Person of the Primary Health Care Board informed participants of the medical centres available to survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Oshodi-Isolo some of which include Isolo General Hospital,  Oshodi PHC, Iyana- Ejigbo PHC, Ilasa PHC. She charged sexual assault survivors to report immediately to any of these hospital to seek medical attention for free. The meeting had in attendance over 200 stakeholders drawn from Community Development Association and Councils, Community Development Authorities, religious leaders notably the Chief Imam of Oshodi Isolo, Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria, Isolo Branch, traditional rulers including his Royal Majesty, Oba Adesina, Elewu of Elewu Kingdom,  market men and women such as the Iya Loja of Oshodi Isolo,  the National Youth Council of Nigeria,  artisans, captains of industries as well as other relevant stakeholders. The toll-free line for reporting domestic and sexual violence cases (08000333333) was inscribed on memorabilia which was distributed to all participants. One of the highlights of the event was the presentation of plaques to the local governments in recognition of their commitment towards ending Sexual and Gender Based Violence in their LGAs and LCDAs. Recall that the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency commenced Local Government Town Hall Meetings on Sexual and Gender-based Violence in January, 2022 at Surulere Local government. The town hall meetings would be held in all the LGAs and LCDAs across the State.

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    Lagos Government Releases 21 Inmates

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    Lagos State Government through the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy on Tuesday, released 21 inmates from various correctional facilities in the State. The exercise is pursuant to the provisions of Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution (amended) which empowers the Governor to exercise Prerogative of Mercy Lagos Attorney and Commissioner Of Justice,Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo SAN, who was represented by the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Ms. Titilayo Shitta-bey, disclosed this at the ministry’s conference room  while handing over the Order for the release of the inmates signed by MR Governor,Olusola Sanwo-Olu to the Correctional Service Authorities.. Onigbanjo said that the release of the inmates was in line with the commitment of the present administration in the State to Justice Sector Reforms through decongestion of the Correctional facilities. “This exercise will offer a second chance to the inmates in hopes that they will change their ways and be re-absolved seamlessly into the society”. In his remarks, Deputy Controller of Prisons, Lagos Command, A.O Aremu commended the State Governor for his efforts at de-congesting prisons across the State noting that the kind gesture will bestow succor and hope to the  beneficiaries.

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    LASG, RoLAC Trains Senior Police Officers on ACJL.

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    In a bid to ensure that fundamental human rights are protected, the rule of law upheld and to ensure quick dispensation of Justice, the Office of the Attorney General,Lagos State Ministry of Justice in collaboration with The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) a program of the European Union recently organized a one day workshop for senior police officers on “The Effective Implementation of Lagos State Administration of Criminal Justice (Amendment) Law, 2021”. The workshop which was held at the Adéyemí Bero Hall, Alausa, Ikeja was solely focused on Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and other sectional heads of police formation in the state. In his welcome address, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo SAN commended the Commissoner of Police, Lagos State Command, AIG of Zone 2 and Alagbon for cooperating with the Ministry to organize the workshop. He noted that following the assent by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to the ACJL on the 30th of September, 2021, it is crucial to bring together different stakeholders to enlighten them on the new innovations introduced in the Law to ensure effective implementation. Onigbanjo noted some of the innovations includes; the powers of chief magistrate to visit police stations, prohibition of media parade of suspects, prohibition of arrest in lieu, recording confessional statements, plea bargain amongst others. “The workshop will present an opportunity to discuss and understand the salient provisions in the law as related to victims, arrests and detention of suspects and safeguards relating to fundamental investigation and preparing a case for trial”. In his remark, the Commissioner for Police, Lagos State Command, CP Abiodun Alabi asserted that the imperativeness of the workshop cannot be overemphasized considering the strategic importance and indispensable role of the police in the administration of criminal justice. “The criminal justice system consists of the police, court and correctional centers whereby the roles and functions of these institutions are intertwined and mutually reinforcing in the effective and successful administration of criminal justice of any country or state”. CP Abiodun expressed the hopes that the workshop would greatly shore up service delivery and international best practices in criminal Justice administration within the State. Also at the event were the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary Ministry of Justice, Ms Titilayo Shitta-Bey, Director DPP, Dr. Babajide Martins, Magistrates, Area Commanders, (RoLAC) State Coordinator, Mrs. Ajibola Ijimakinwa, program facilitators amongst others.

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    Lagos Urges Citizens to Promote Peaceful Co-Existence

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    The Lagos State Government has charged citizens to be committed to efforts geared towards establishing peaceful and harmonious coexistence in the State. This was disclosed by Director, Lagos State Public Advice Centre, Mr. Tunji Dawodu at a sensitisation campaign held at Olorunda Local Council Development Area, Badagry. Dawodu who led the team to the community revealed that the exercise was part of the move to engage Lagosians on their role in promoting an harmonious society where development can thrive. Speaking at the event, the Director explained that the establishment of the Public Advise Centre  serves as the first port of call for citizens in distress and those seeking information and advice on their rights and responsibilities. According to him, in every human society, disputes and controversies are inevitable, and as a progressive government, we must continue to seek positive ways to manage these challenges and make the society peaceful and better. He declared that the State government has resolved to enlighten the citizens on positive approaches  in resolving some of the recurrent issues in the society noting that the  government is committed to due diligence and fairness in resolving issues. He addded that peculiar issues in our society such as marital dispute, tenancy controversies, property management, environmental related matters as well as family and inheritance matters should not be nipped in the bud immediately before escalating to unmanageable proportions  and threatening societal peace. He noted that the advocacy campaign  was designed to educate Lagosians especially  people at the grassroots on their rights  and responsibilities. The Director stressed on the free legal advice offered by the centre and referral of special cases to other appropriate Agencies of the Lagos State Government which according to him are always followed up till resolved. Responding to questions from members of the community, Dawodu affirmed that cases such as land grabbing, property theft, environmental pollution, tenancy issue, community dues are always referred to other agencies of government including Office of the Public Defender (OPD), Citizens Mediation Center (CMC) Landgrabbers, Administrator-General and Public Trustee, Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA)and the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency amongst others. While urging members of the community to always seek alternative dispute resolution channels  provided by the government, the Director emphasized on the need for people to shun violence and be law abiding Applauding the state government for the outreach, the leadership of the community attested to the free legal services and timely resolution of issues by the Centre, stating that the community development association would continue to preach the clarion for peace and harmony.

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    36 State’s Attorney-General Forum Elect Onigbanjo, Others

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    The Attorneys-General and Commissioners for Justice of the 36 states have elected the Attorney General of Lagos State, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo SAN) as the interim chairman of the executive committee. Onigbanjo was elected during the Forum’s inaugural meeting recently held on Monday at Abuja. The forum also elected the Attorney General of Nasarawa State, Dr. Karim Kana as interim secretary amongst others. The executive committee will run the affairs of the forum, arrange meetings, issue statements on behalf of all the 36 AGs, take positions on legal issues, advice the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and take legal action or review legal actions taken on behalf of all the States. Part of the executive committee mandate includes the pursuit of true federalism, adherence to the constitution, rule of law, independence of the judiciary as well as liaison with the AGF on behalf of the states on legal issues. Speakers at the maiden event includes the  Governor of Plateau State who delivered the welcome address whilst a former Attorney General of the Federation, Kanu Agabi (SAN) delivered the keynote address. The next meeting of the Attorneys-General of the 36 States of the Federation will hold in the second quarter of 2022.

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    Lagos Sensitises Badagry Residents on Land Grabbing Laws

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    In an effort to rid the state of the menace of land grabbers and ensure that those found culpable of the crime are prosecuted, the State Government on Thursday organised a stakeholders forum for residents  of Badagry Division The stakeholders meeting organised by the Ministry of Justice and the State Special Taskforce on Land Grabbers is to inundate the residents of the Lagos State Taskforce on Land Grabbers Law, 2016. The Commissioner for Justice and Attorney General, Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo (S.A.N) disclosed that the meeting is to intimate stakeholders on the Law and how it protects the rights of land owners, communities and indeed the State from the activities of Land Grabbers. Onigbanjo, who was represented by the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary in the State’s Ministry of Justice, Ms. Titilayo Shitta-Bey noted that the State is leaving no stone unturned to educate Lagosians on the negative effects of land grabbing as this has led to the break down of law and order, economic instability amongst others. The Commissioners further disclosed that the Ministry is working with relevant agencies of government for proper implementation of the Land Grabbers Law, 2016 so as to nip the menace in the bud. The Attorney-General however charged traditional rulers, whom he described as custodians of customary lands to move against the activities of Land Grabbers in their domains, while also sensitisiting the youths and other members of their Communities on government efforts on Land Grabbing. He warned that the State Government will not tolerate the activities of Land Grabbers in the State, noting that the Land Grabbers Law 2016 has provisions to punish offenders with  up to ten years imprisonment and a fine up to the sum of five million naira or both. Also speaking, Coordinator, Lagos State Special Taskforce on Land Grabbers, Mr. Owolabi Arole said it is imperative to brainstorm with major Stakeholders on indigenous ideas to nip the activities of Land Grabbers in the bud. According to Arole, most land grabbers are often not indigents of the State, but unscrupulous elements who have found means of creating mayhem and to this end ,his Agency will not rest on its oars until  it rid the state of land grabbing activities. On his part, the lawmaker representing Ojo Constituency 2, Olatunji Tijani said there is a clear line between Land Grabbers and Land Owners, adding that the menace of land grabbing is a result of lack of partnership among stakeholders and the never ending rot in the system. The Aladi ,Onijanikin of Ijanikin Kingdom,Oba Dr Momodu Afolabi Asafa clamoured for unity among traditionals rulers in the domain adding that land matters  should not cause disaffection and disunity among residents Stakeholders at the sensitisation exercise who were drawn from various parts of the Lagos West Senatorial District called for more synergy between government, law enforcement agencies and stakeholders to further stamp out the activities of Land Grabbers in the State. The stakeholders also attribute the rise in land grabbing activities to greed and illiteracy. The event with the theme; ‘’Land Grabbers, the Law and Your Rights’’ had in attendance law makers, judicial officials, traditional rulers, security personnel, representatives of religious bodies, land owners, residents amongst others.

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    Lagos State Commences Publication of Details of Sex Offenders

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    In furtherance of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s zero tolerance to all forms of domestic and sexual violence, the State government has begun the publication of details of sex offenders in the state.  This was disclosed to newsmen by the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Mrs Titilola Vivour Adeniyi during a press conference at the agency’s office. The details according to the Executive Secretary includes; name and picture of the sex offender, the nature of the offence as well as the duration of the sentence handed down by the court.  Mrs Vivour Adeniyi noted that this was in line with the provisions of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency Law, particularly section 42 which provides that the Agency is to periodically publish details of Sex convicts in the state.  She also said letters of advisory have been issued to local governments and traditional rulers of the communities where the convicts previously resided.  This measure is one amongst many deployed by the state government to end the culture of impunity and also serve as a deterrence to other sex offenders. As further provided in the law, the details of sex convicts are to be published periodically on the State Government’s website, (www.lagosstate.gov.ng), the website of the Ministry of Justice ( https://lagosstatemoj.org) and the Agency’s website; ( www.dsvrtlagos.org)  The Executive Security reiterated that the stance of the State  government is resolute in preventing incidents of sexual and domestic abuse, whilst ensuring justice for all survivors.  She added that to report any case of domestic and sexual violence, Lagosians are to call the toll-free number, 08000333333.

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    Lagos AG & PT Restates Commitment of Ensuring Justice For Lagos Residents

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    The Administrator-General and Public Trustee, Lagos State, Mrs. Omotola Rotimi has restated the commitment of her office towards ensuring that Lagos residents  through the Office of the Administrator-General and Public Trustee (AG&PT) gets justice. Mrs. Rotimi gave this charge on Friday, during the broadcast of an interview  with the crew of  “City of Lagos TV Show” noting that the vision of the agency is to have an office that is efficient,reliable and trustworthy towards the actualization of the public trustee of choice in Nigeria and beyond . Speaking on the major functions her office,she said that the AG&PT is a sole corporate, meaning it is a legal entity that can sue and be sued. “The major functions of the Office are actually to administer and manage the estates of the deceased, especially when the deceased dies intestate (without making a Will). However, that does not rule out those that died testate (leaving a Will) ,because the Office also represents and defends estates in court matters where the Office has been included as a party or where the court asks the Office to be a party”. She stated. Mrs Rotimi stressed that  the Office also administer equitable sharing and partitioning of estates of deceased persons; obtaining Letters of Administrations (L. As) in cases where a deceased died intestate and the family needs to access funds in the bank, (for instance as receiver in the administration of estates to ensure the recovery of all estates that belong to the deceased person(s) and also settle justified claims, i.e., if a deceased person is owing) The Administrator General further  clarified that in situations where a deceased person has properties in other States and countries, the Office ensures the resealing of L.As, hence, there is no need to obtain new L.As in such places .In addition, the Office also ensure  payment of death benefits to civil/public servants who died in active service.  Speaking on the success rate and achievements of the agency, the AG&PT noted that the Office has about 10,000 cases under its management, out of which 5,000 was successfully completed last year. According to her, “The public response to the services of the AG&PT has been impressive because they are aware that the agency is the Sole Office that has been empowered to manage the estates of deceased people in the State” She averred that majorly of the people who visit the Office are less privileged and vulnerable because they cannot afford the services of private lawyers. There are cases of underaged writing petitions to the Office to intervene in their matters as well, and the Office steps in to act as guidance to them”. She said. Mrs. Rotimi also revealed that in the year 2021, the Office achieved a  great revenue generation performance, moved from the Ministry of Justice building in Alausa to a larger and befitting office space to ensure diligent delivery of services to the residents of the State; managed and administered estates professionally; and obtained L.As for beneficiaries to quickly access funds to either ensure the burial of their deceased persons or get them economically empowered. While appreciating Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for ensuring the delivery of seamless judicial services to all Lagos residents irrespective of status, class or creed through the blueprints of the T.H.E.M.E.S agenda, Mrs. Rotimi averred that the year 2022 would witness massive grassroot public awareness and sensitization programmes by the Office; sustenance of the collaboration with other agencies and institutions like the Probate Registry in the Lagos State High Court, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Domestic and Sexual Violence Unit and the Police; ensuring that estates are properly managed to reflect market value and suitable for human habitation; and lastly surpassing last year’s revenue generation performance. Recall that the AG&PT had recently embarked on a similar familiarization and sensitization visit to Radio Lagos/Eko FM, where she featured on a programme known as “JoliJoli” to further enlighten and sensitized residents of the State on the activities, achievements and mandates of the Office.

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    Lagos enforces Safeguarding and Child Protection Policies in Schools

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    The Lagos State Government under the aegis of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency and the Office of Education Quality Assurance has commenced implementation of the State’s Safeguarding and Child Protection Programme in schools The one-day sensitization program, held on the Monday at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa was aimed at educating principals, heads of schools and school administrators on the Safeguarding and Child Protection policy of the State Government The program was facilitated by erudite child protection experts which includes the Director-General , Office of Education Quality Assurance, Mrs. Abiola Seriki-Ayeni, Mr.Taiwo Akinlami and Mrs. Modupeola Saheed Adebambo Delivering the welcome address, the Executive Secretary of Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency(DSVA),Mrs. Titilola Vivour Adeniyi underscored the fact that whilst most child abuse occur within families and communities, children also experience abuse and exploitation in organisations that provide them with support and services. She added that research has shown that physical, emotional abuse and neglect in child focused organisations and institutions are less systematic and usually unplanned, as it stems from poor conditions, bad work practices and negligent management. Vivour-Adeniyi stressed that it is mandatory for all child centred institutions to adopt and ensure full implementation of a Safeguarding and Child Protection policy. On her part,the Director-General ,Education Quality Assurance,Mrs. Abiola Seriki- Ayeni, highlighted the need for schools to recognize the role they play in ensuring the wellbeing and safety of children, especially as children spend a significant time of their day in school. The Director-General urged participants to take advantage of the free online course “Introduction of Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy” which over 10 000 educators have successfully completed, encouraging those who haven’t taken the course to do so. Mrs. Adebambo provided an overview of the Executive Order on Safeguarding and Child Protection programme, whilst emphasizing critical measures schools should take in ensuring the safety of their students, some of which includes,safer recruitment procedures, adopting a safeguarding policy, having a designated safeguarding officer and establishing reporting, recording and feedback mechanisms. Mr. Taiwo Akinlami gave an insight into what child’s rights entails,societal and cultural perceptions of children as well as norms and beliefs that encourage child abuse.The issue of corporal punishment was also discussed, even as participants were reminded of the State Government’s No-Caning policy. A total of 400 primary and secondary schools, drawn from both public and private schools in Education District 6 were in attendance .Participants were given the relevant tools required in ensuring they are able to effectively establish and implement Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy in their institutions. The program is to be implemented in all education districts, thereby reiterating Mr. Governor Sanwo-Olu’s Administration’s commitment in ensuring the safety and protection of all children in Schools.

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    Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency Storms Ajeromi Ifelodun LGA to Sensitize Residents on SGBV

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    The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency on Tuesday continued its second local government town hall meeting  at Ajeromi Ifelofun local Government in an attempt to address the rising cases of domestic and sexual violence across the state.The meeting which is the second community engagement this year took place at Ajeromi Ifelodun local government The town hall meeting themed “It’s on us to End Sexual and Gender-Based Violence” is designed to heighten awareness about Domestic and Sexual Violence amongst members of the community, inform them of the provisions of the laws and support services available for victims and survivors. Addressing participants ,the Executive Secretary of DSVA, Mrs Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi reiterated the need for all participants to see themselves as mandated reporters, charging them that if they see something, they have a duty to say something and do something. Vivour-Adeniyi added that this year, DSVA is more committed to ensuring that the declaration of Governor Babajide Sanwoolu’s zero tolerance to all forms of Domestic and Sexual Violence, is attained. Executive Chairman of Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government Area, who was represented by the Vice-Chairman, Hon. Lucky Uduikhue assured participants of the local government’s zeal and desire in ensuring all relevant stakeholders, collaborate to rid Ajeromi Ifelodun LGA of the menace of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). Speaking further,Mrs Adeola Birch of the Youth Adolescent Friendly Centres, Ministry of Health, in Lagos State popularly referred to as “Hello Lagos!” including as ASP Itunu Faremi and Inspector Folasade Ajayi, Officers in Charge of Festac and Ajegunle Family Support Unit respectively, enlightened participants on issues related to SGBV, informing them of community resources available at their disposal. The meeting had in attendance over 300 stakeholders drawn from community Development Councils, traditional rulers, the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Community Development Authorities, Market men and women, religious leaders, community leaders, artisans, captains of industries as well as other relevant stakeholders. The toll-free line for reporting domestic and sexual violence cases (08000333333) which was inscribed on memorabilia was distributed to all participants. It should be recalled that the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency commenced Local Government Town Hall Meetings on Sexual and Gender-based Violence in Surulere earlier in the month. The town hall meetings would be held in all the LGAs and LCDAs across the State.

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