Lagos State Ministry of Justice

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Lagos Attorney General receives the Attorney General of Borno State

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

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

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

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Press Briefing by The Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner For Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro San, Fciarb, towards the upcoming Strategic Stakeholders Meeting and Commemoration of His First Year in Office held at MOJ Conference Room on October 21, 2024

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Protocol Good morning, distinguished directors, ladies and gentlemen of the press. It is with great pleasure and a profound sense of responsibility that I welcome you to this press conference, marking a milestone as we commemorate the first year of my tenure as the Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Lagos State. This gathering serves as a reflection on our achievements over the past year and a vital platform to discuss the upcoming Strategic Stakeholders Meeting. Introduction The Ministry of Justice has maintained the tradition of keeping Lagos State as the vanguard of rule of law, fiscal federalism, reform of justice administration and good governance. These are achieved through the various directorates and departments in the ministry such asthe following Directorate of Legislative Drafting The Ministry through this directorate focuses on law reforms and legislation initiatives in the area of public law and improvement of the legal environment to promote economic activities. Directorate of Civil Litigation The Directorate of Civil Litigation (DCL) is the major litigation branch of the Lagos State Government.  It has direct responsibility for instituting and defending civil actions involving the State Government, its Ministries and Agencies. The DCL uses a multi-pronged approach in its claims and litigation management in its efforts to minimize the Lagos State Government’s exposure to liabilities. Directorate of Advisory Services and Judicial Liaison The Directorate is responsible for proffering legal advice on petitions received from private persons and corporate organizations and advice on request from ministries, parastatals and other establishments of the Lagos State Government. Attendance at Personnel Management Board Meetings on disciplinary matters relating to junior, senior and management officers within the Lagos State Public Service. The Directorate defends all employment related cases filed against the State Government or any of its MDAs. Directorate of Public Prosecutions The primary function of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is to issue legal advice on case files sent by the Police and to prosecute criminal cases at the Magistrates’ Courts, Special Offences Court and the High Court. The Directorate also handles criminal appeals at the High courts, Court of Appeal and Supreme\Courts. Directorate of Commercial Law The Directorate of Commercial Law (DCOMLAW) is responsible for negotiations, drafting of commercial agreements and the review of commercial proposals from other Ministries and Government Agencies. The Directorate also offers advisory services on commercial contracts and transactions for and on behalf of Government and its agencies. The Citizens Mediation Centre (CMC) The Citizens Mediation Centre (CMC) is an agency of Government established by the Lagos State Government to employ Alternative Dispute Resolution Mechanisms (Mediation) for the resolution of civil disputes amongst residents of Lagos State in particular the indigents who cannot afford the cost of litigation. The Directorate for Citizens’ Rights The Directorate for Citizens’ Rights (DCR) is the complaint centre for residents of Lagos State. Currently, the Directorate has two new units: The Human Rights Protection Unit (HRPU). The Unit sees to the protection of Human Rights of Citizen in Lagos State particularly awaiting trial inmates of the prisons and the Consumer Rights Protection Unit that assist residents of Lagos to protect their consumer rights and interests. Public Advice Centre The Public Advice Centre (PAC) is saddled with the responsibility of providing citizens with easy access to legal information and advice which will benefit and improve the knowledge of their legal rights. Administrator General and Public Trustee The Administrator General and Public Trustee (“AG & PT”) is in-charge of the management of estates either by order of court or by appointment as executor and trustee of Will or administration of Estate. The Office is also responsible for estate limited to death benefit of public servants and those referred to it by Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) or other Corporate bodies. The Office of the Public Defender The Office of the Public Defender (OPD) is responsible for providing legal aid services and advice to indigent citizens. To this end, it receives complaints directly from individuals or by referrals from government agencies, public institutions etc. they ensure access to justice for indigent residents of Lagos State. The supporting departments are Directorate of Human Resources and Administration, Accounts, Budget and Planning, Public Procurement and Internal Audit. Over the past year, I have had the privilege of serving under the able leadership of Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu. His unwavering commitment to good governance and the rule of law has laid a solid foundation for our work at the Ministry of Justice. Our focus has been steadfast: to ensure that justice is not only served but is accessible to all residents of Lagos State, irrespective of their socio-economic status or background. Aligning with the T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS agenda of Mr. Governor, our mission has been to cultivate a legal environment that upholds the rule of law, protects human rights, and facilitates easy access to justice. This agenda emphasizes principles of transparency, efficiency, and accountability, which guide our actions and decisions at the Ministry. Throughout this past year, we have undertaken numerous initiatives aimed at improving our justice delivery system, addressing the challenges faced by our citizens, and reinforcing the integrity of our legal framework. We have made considerable strides in various areas, including enhancing access to legal services, streamlining prosecution processes, and ensuring that the vulnerable receive the necessary support. The cardinal belief of this administration is that a dynamic and functional justice system is sine qua non for the sustenance of democracy as well as the achievement of good governance. To this end, Governor of Lagos State approved fund for the completion and furnishing of the JIC Taylor Magistrate court house and payment of 34 flats official quarters for the Magistrates. Upcoming Strategic Stakeholders Meeting As we look ahead, I am pleased to announce the upcoming Strategic Stakeholders Meeting, scheduled for October 23rd and 24th, 2024, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Isaac John Street, GRA Ikeja, Lagos. This meeting, themed “Enhancing Collaboration for Effective Justice Delivery,” aims to strengthen inter-agency collaboration and improve the enforcement of laws

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Lagos Attorney General receives newly appointed Lagos CP

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In a gesture aimed at reinforcing the collaborative efforts between the police force and the legal system in the State, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN received the newly appointed Commissioner of Police, CP. Olanrewaju Ishola Olawale and his team, during a courtesy visit on Tuesday, 8th October 2024 at the conference room, Ministry of Justice, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. Speaking at the meeting, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro, SAN, emphasized the need for stronger collaboration to address security issues in the State, particularly the ever-growing menace of land grabbing which has been a general concern for both Lagos State residents and the State Government. The Attorney General also reaffirmed the importance of the partnership between the police force and the legal system, highlighting the need for continual dialogue to address emerging security challenges and protect the rights of all citizens. “The synergy between our institutions is crucial for the delivery and quick dispensation of justice in the State. This visit signifies our collective dedication to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that every citizen enjoys their rights under the law,” said Pedro. In his remarks, the Commissioner of Police, CP. Olanrewaju Ishola Olawale expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome and unwavering support of the Attorney General’s office in handling cases brought forward by the police force. He stated, “Our visit today is to strengthen the already existing cooperation between the police and legal officers in the State. Together, we are committed to building a safer Lagos.” CP. Olanrewaju highlighted the ongoing efforts of the police to curb illegal land activities and assured the public that the police would intensify their operations to protect citizens’ rights and properties. “The problem of land grabbing is a growing concern, and it is affecting the peace and security of many communities. By working closely with the Attorney General’s office, we will ensure that offenders are not only apprehended but also prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” he reassured. Responding, the AG pledged to collaborate with the police on the development of new policies that would close legal loopholes exploited by criminals, further enhancing their ability to protect the lives of property owners while upholding the rule of law and maintaining peace and order in the State. This visit is expected to bolster the continuous efforts to combat crime, foster accountability, and ensure the efficient prosecution of cases. It also highlights the continued partnership between the police force and the legal system, both of which are integral to the upholding of human rights and the enforcement of justice. In attendance: Acting Permanent Secretary/Solicitor General, MoJ, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; DCP. Lateef Ahmed; SP. Yetunde Cardoso; SP. Benjamin Hundeyin and other Directors in the Ministry of Justice.

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A 3-day Microsoft Suite Training program organized by the Lagos Ministry of Justice for different cadres of officers

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Director Civil Litigation Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; Director ICT, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Johnson, Facilitator, Mr. Felix and other Participants during a 3 days Microsoft Suite Training program organized by the Lagos Ministry of Justice for different cadres of officers on Tuesday 3rd to Thursday 5th of September, 2024 at the Ministry’s Conference room, Secretariat, Alausa. The training focused on equipping participants with advanced skills in key Microsoft applications including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook. Participants were guided through practical sessions that emphasized real world applications such as creating professional documents, document encryption, managing data effectively and developing presentations.

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LAGOS DCR VISITS IKOYI CORRECTIONAL CENTRE

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….aims to access and enhance rehabilitation programs for inmates In a bid to ensure rehabilitation and social reintegration in our correctional centres, the Lagos State Government through the Directorate for Citizens Rights, recently paid a visit to Ikoyi Correctional Centre to sensitize inmates on their rights as citizens of the State. The Director, Directorate for Citizens Rights, Ms. Adetutu Oshinusi said that the aim of this visit is to access and enhance rehabilitation programs aimed at preparing inmates for reintegration into society which can involve evaluating educational, vocational and psychological support services. Ms. Oshinusi further explained that this visit will also contribute to the decongestion of prisons across the State. “DCR was established with the purpose of promoting non-custodial sentences for minor offences such as probation, fines and community services, while supporting the initiatives that allow for the early release of inmates who have demonstrated good behaviors, completed rehabilitation programs” She noted that DCR also supports comprehensive rehabilitation and reintegration programs that prepare inmates for successful re-entry into society, thereby reducing recidivism rates and the cycle of re-incarceration. Also speaking, Legal Officer Ikoyi Correctional Centre, Ayinde Adeleke Adeniyi ably represented by DSP Ogueri extended his sincere gratitude to Lagos State Government, Ministry of Justice, Directorate of Citizens Right for their support and commitment to justice and human rights while ensuring that the rights of inmates are respected and upheld. He noted that the information and guidance provided will undoubtedly empower the inmates with a better understanding of their rights and the legal avenues available to them. Also saying, that it is crucial for their self development and rehabilitation “Your efforts in advocating for fair treatment, providing legal assistance, and working towards improving the conditions within our facility are truly commendable”, Ogueri said. Domestic consumables for the inmates were handed over to the warders at the Ikoyi Correctional Center which had 3,402 Inmates out of which 135 have had court appearances.

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LETI HOSTS MEMBERS OF LAGOS HOUSE COMMITTEE ON JUDICIARY

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The Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights, Public Petitions and LASIEC, as part of its oversight functions, paid a working visit to the Lagos State Law Enforcement Training Institute (LETI). The purpose of the visit, according to the Chairman of the House Committee, was to familiarise members of the Committee with the activities, objectives and challenges of the Agency as well as to promote the existing cordial relationship between the Committee and the Institute. He added that the Committee also wish to carry out a thorough inspection of the facilities of the Institute, to know and interact with the leadership, exchange ideas on the challenges being faced by the Institute and how to offer the needed support where necessary. The Chairman averred that the present Administration of Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu is committed to alleviating and finding solutions to myriads of problems faced by any Agency and to find solutions to alleviate such problems in earnest. Hon, Ajomale, however, commended the efforts and proactiveness of the Head of the Institute in ensuring that the Agency is well grounded despite the challenges they are currently undergoing. In her remarks, Mrs. Abiola Adeyinka, the Head of the Lagos State Law Enforcement Training Institute (LETI), reiterated the need for a proper and well-furnished office space which the Governor had approved. She also solicited the support of the Committee to ensure that the Institute’s planned projects are achieved in the shortest possible time. She emphasised that the progress of the Institute will give a good public perception and impact positively the THEMES Plus Agenda of the present Administration. Representatives of the State Law Enforcement Agencies present during the visit include LASTMA, LNSC, KAI and the CBD (Central Business District).

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