Lagos State Ministry of Justice

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Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE – LAGOS ATTORNEY GENERAL MARKS TWO YEARS IN OFFICE WITH LANDMARK LEGAL VICTORIES.

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…, ₦1.5 BILLION TAX RECOVERY, AND OVER 25,000 CRIMINAL CASES DIGITIZED The Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, on Tuesday 30th of September, 2025 held a press briefing and media parley to commemorate his second year in office at the Ministry of Justice Conference room, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. Mr. Pedro, who was sworn into office on 13th September 2023 following his appointment by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and confirmation by the Lagos State House of Assembly, described the two-year milestone as an opportunity to reflect on the journey so far and highlight significant accomplishments that have shaped governance, protected rights, and expanded access to justice in Lagos. In his address, the AG noted that legal advisory services to Ministries, Departments and Agencies have become faster and more efficient, while the prosecution and defence of cases on behalf of the State Government have been greatly strengthened. A landmark success was the Supreme Court judgment affirming the constitutional authority of Lagos State to regulate lotteries and games of chance, thereby protecting State revenue and entrenching fiscal federalism. He disclosed that the State has already returned to court to initiate contempt proceedings against the National Assembly for attempting to override the judgment through a Central Gaming Bill. On criminal prosecution, Mr. Pedro recalled the conviction of Andrew Nice in the BRT rape and murder case, describing it as proof of the Ministry’s resolve to deliver justice without fear or favour. He also highlighted the use of plea bargain, with 361 applications processed in the last two years, out of which 314 were approved, helping to decongest correctional centres. Additionally, 263 deserving inmates were released under the Governor’s prerogative of mercy, while 348 restorative justice cases were received, with agreements reached in 192. The Attorney General noted that although the Community Service Unit had faced setbacks in previous years, it has now been fully revitalised. The Head Office has been renovated with improved facilities, pioneer project officers have been absorbed into the Civil Service, and new buses, tools and safety equipment have been provided for effective operations. As a result of these interventions, 4,800 offenders have successfully carried out community service sentences in Lagos State over the last two years. Pedro revealed that the Lagos State Criminal Information System (LCIS), a databank automating criminal case records, now contains 78,982 cases, including 25,822 recorded between September 2023 and September 2025. This, he said, strengthens transparency and long-term criminal justice planning. On fiscal governance, Pedro announced that the establishment of Revenue Courts and a dedicated Revenue Recovery Unit has already yielded impressive results. He cited one notable bank that paid ₦1.5 billion in outstanding taxes following enforcement proceedings, with others now making arrangements to settle their liabilities. In safeguarding property rights, he confirmed that in the last two years, he signed 738 Deemed Grants and 810 Regularisation files, while the Lagos State Special Taskforce on Land Grabbers treated 982 petitions, enforcing sanctions against offenders in 124 confirmed cases of land grabbing. On the fight against human trafficking, the Attorney General reported that the Lagos State Task Force Against Human Trafficking (LASTAHT), which had been dormant since 2020, has been revitalised and recently facilitated the safe repatriation of seven Nigerian victims trafficked to Ghana. He stressed that staff welfare and motivation have been deliberately prioritised, with junior staff benefiting from their first retreat in a decade, senior management commencing a three-day retreat, and staff enjoying robe and litigation allowances, new buses, and functional elevators. For the first time, 10 flats have been secured as staff quarters for Counsel, reducing the accommodation burden on legal officers. Concluding his address, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, described the Ministry of Justice under his leadership as not just the custodian of the rule of law but a driver of social change and inclusive development. He expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his support, trust, and confidence in granting him the opportunity to serve Lagos State as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. Delivering his welcome address earlier, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, described the occasion as a moment of pride for the entire Ministry. He noted that the second-year anniversary of the Hon. Attorney General provided an opportunity to reflect on the Ministry’s steady progress in deepening access to justice, strengthening fiscal governance, and safeguarding the rights of citizens. Oyenuga assured that the Ministry will continue to support the Attorney General’s vision and uphold the standard of excellence that has made the Lagos State Ministry of Justice a model in Nigeria’s Justice Sector.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOJ, OPD CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO JUSTICE

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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice through its agency,the Bureau of the Public Defender formerly known as Office of the Public Defender (OPD), has celebrated 25years of unwavering commitment to justice at a commemorative event, themed “Honouring the Past, Defending the Future,” held on Wednesday 24th of September, 2025 at the Civic Center, Victoria Island, Lagos. Delivering his goodwill message,Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ably represented by the Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, congratulated the OPD for its steadfast service since its establishment in 2000, describing the OPD as a shining example of Lagos State’s commitment to protecting the rights of the vulnerable. “The OPD has stood for the voiceless, defended the weak, and offered hope to countless residents whilst making justice accessible to everyone in the State” He said. Sanwo-Olu expressed pride in the various strides that the State has made in strengthening the agency by expanding its offices to more communities, supporting its governing council and prioritizing access to justice as a pillar of the THEMES+ Agenda. “Let it be known that we celebrate not only the institution of BPD but also the resilience of its counsel, the courage of its clients and the fate of Lagosians in the justice sector”, the Governor noted. Earlier in his remarks,the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, underscored the importance of reflecting on OPD’s achievements over the years. Pedro highlighted the agency’s growth from a modest office into a full-fledged institution that has secured landmark victories in criminal defense, human rights protection, family matters, child rights, and domestic violence cases. “For 25 years, BPD has embodied the conscience of our justice sector. It has stood in defense of those who could not stand for themselves and has expanded the scope of justice to the grassroots. Today, as we celebrate the past, we must also recommit ourselves to strengthening the BPD to defend the future of justice in Lagos State,” the Attorney-General said. Delivering his welcome address earlier, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, noted that the theme “Honouring the Past, Defending the Future” aptly captures the essence of the celebration. He explained that the occasion was not only to mark a milestone, but also to reflect on a noble journey of service, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to justice. Oyenuga added that from its humble beginnings to its present stature, the Bureau has consistently affirmed that access to justice is a right, not a privilege; one that must be upheld with courage and integrity. Also speaking at the event, the Director of the Bureau, Mrs. Olubunmi Adesomoju, expressed deep appreciation for the remarkable turnout and support at the anniversary celebration. She assured that the agency will remain unwavering in its mandate, pledging that BPD will continue to innovate, expand its horizon, and defend the rights of the vulnerable, so that justice in Lagos State remains accessible and meaningful for all. The event featured goodwill messages from foreign partners, recognition of outstanding staff, and a panel session on the future of public defense in Lagos State. The celebration also brought together dignitaries and stakeholders from the judiciary sector, representatives of Pepperdine University, USA; Public Interest Law Partnership (PILP), NBA, Parastatal Monitoring Office (PMO), RoLAC, UNICEF, Civil Society Organizations,Directors, Heads of Unit and Counsel in the State Ministry of Justice.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOJ: RJC, CSC SECURE COMMUNITY SERVICE SENTENCE FOR OFFENDERS

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In line with its reform agenda and commitment to decongesting correctional facilities across the State, the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, through its Restorative Justice Centre (RJC), in collaboration with the Non-Custodial/Community Service Centre, has secured a community service sentence for two bakery workers alleged to have stolen from their employer. The workers were accused of stealing five (5) loaves of bread, with their employer insisting they must be prosecuted in court. However, under the Ministry’s innovative sifting process at the Magistrate Courts, a District Prosecutor reviewed the matter and referred both parties to the Restorative Justice Centre instead of filing charges. Following a successful mediation at the centre, the parties reached an agreement whereby the offenders would serve two weeks of community service, which commenced immediately. This resolution highlights the Ministry’s proactive approach to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and accountability, while demonstrating the effectiveness of restorative justice in resolving minor offences.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS HOSTS GROUNDBREAKING REVENUE RECOVERY SUMMIT.

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… Emphasizes Speedy Dispensation of Revenue Cases in Court In a bold step towards enhancing the State’s financial integrity and Justice delivery system, key stakeholders gathered on Friday for a Revenue Recovery Summit themed “Speedy Dispensation of Revenue Cases in Court”, organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. Presenting his remarks, the Hon. Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba, represented by Hon. Justice Hakeem Oshodi, reaffirmed the judiciary’s dedication to judicial efficiency and innovation. He announced a renewed commitment to fast-tracking revenue cases through the designation of specialized judges and the integration of technology in adjudication processes. “Justice delayed is indeed revenue denied,” he stated firmly, pledging continued collaboration with all revenue-generating agencies and the Ministry of Justice. Delivering the Keynote address, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, emphasized the urgency of the summit, noting that revenue is the lifeblood of public service delivery across sectors such as healthcare, education, security, sanitation, and infrastructure. Pedro stated that when revenue is trapped in prolonged legal processes, the true cost is borne by the ordinary citizens. The A.G also reiterated Lagos State’s strategic interventions to fast-track revenue cases, including the commissioning of the Commercial Courts Complex in Tapa, Lagos which is currently serving as the designated Revenue Court; as well as the creation of a Revenue Recovery Unit within the Ministry. He pointed out that legal frameworks such as the Lagos State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2019 and the recently enacted Tax Administration Act 2025 already empower the government to pursue outstanding revenue efficiently and transparently. The Attorney General called on members of the judiciary, revenue authorities, and legal practitioners present to commit to practical solutions that will ensure expeditious resolution of tax and revenue disputes. “The Government’s policy is very clear: all revenue matters must be heard and determined speedily. Delay in revenue cases is a delay in governance,” the Attorney General affirmed. Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, urged stakeholders to embrace case management strategies that would support a fast, fair, and accountable system that serves both the state and the taxpayers. Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, set the tone for the day, emphasizing that the summit is not merely a discussion platform but a collective call to action. Oyenuga noted that revenue generation and recovery remain the backbone of governance, and any delay in revenue adjudication weakens service delivery to the people. In his remarks, the Chairman of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Mr. Ayodele Subair ably represented by Director Legal Services LIRS, Mr. Seyi Alade expressed deep concern over the slow pace of adjudicating revenue-related matters, describing it as a major challenge to effective revenue administration. He commended the Ministry of Justice for convening the summit and emphasized that prompt resolution of tax cases is crucial for deterring tax abuse and strengthening voluntary compliance. Mr Seyi Alade highlighted LIRS’ recent reforms, including the e-Tax platform, advanced tax intelligence tools, and enhanced enforcement mechanisms, and called for a more responsive judicial process. Key proposals included specialist training for revenue judges, strict timelines for litigation, and the establishment of a Revenue Justice Working Group. He stressed that “justice delayed in revenue matters is not only justice denied, it is development deferred.” Other notable dignitaries and presenters include, Hon. Justice Jumoke O. Pedro; Hon. Justice Yhaqub Oshoala; Chairman House Committee on Finance member representative of Kosofe 2, Hon. Femi Saheed; Permanent Secretary, Citizens Mediation Bureau, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju; Former AG/CJ & DCOS to the President FRN, Office of the Vice President, Mr. Ade Ipaye OFR; Hon. Justice Anjorin-Ajose; Magistrates, Lawyers ,Directors and Counsel in the State Ministry of Justice.

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PRESS RELEASE: PLEA BARGAIN – LAGOS MOJ, ROLAC SENSITIZES AWAITING TRIAL INMATES

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The Directorate of Public Prosecution under the Lagos State Ministry of Justice through its plea bargain committee, in collaboration with the Custodial Centres in Lagos State and the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC II), organized a series of sensitization programmes across various Correctional Centres in Lagos on the 15th,22nd and 30th of May 2025 respectively. The Director of the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins ably represented by Mrs Adebanke Ogunode who led officials of the Ministry of Justice noted that the Plea Bargain process is in collaboration with the Restorative Justice Unit of the Ministry of Justice to give more awareness on their procedures as used in the Magistrate Court for minor offences. He said, the aim of the exercise was to enlighten inmates on the Plea Bargain process and introduce the use of a New Data Entry Form developed to aid proper documentation and to track cases of interested inmates who have explored the option. “Plea Bargain option is aimed at Prison decongestion and not a ploy to compel inmates to plead guilty to lesser Charges”Martins said. Martins further emphasized that “It is in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu’s reform initiative in the administration of Criminal Justice in the State.“ He however noted that the sessions were interactive and impactful, with several inmates expressing willingness to explore both Plea Bargain and Restorative Justice options. Lagos Ministry of Justice is committed to decongestion of correctional facilities in the State, ensuring timely access to justice and reintegrating offenders into the society. Overall, the programme was a success and contributed to the ongoing efforts to enhance speedy dispensation of justice and decongest the Correctional Centres.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT COMMENDS ECOWAS COURT’S EXTERNAL SESSION INITIATIVE

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…A Milestone for Accessible Justice in West Africa The Lagos State Government on Thursday , proudly participated in the commencement of the External Court Sessions of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice at the Osborne Foreshore High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos. Delivering his address at the opening ceremony, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, commended the Court’s initiative and efforts to decentralize the administration of justice and make legal proceedings more accessible and transparent to the ordinary citizen. Ably represented by the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, he emphasized that the adjudication of cases and administration of justice are the pillars of a stable and progressive society. Echoing the words of Hon. Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves, “Justice hidden is justice denied”, He noted that these external sessions are not merely procedural, they are also educational, enlightening, and essential for empowering the public with the knowledge of their legal rights. The Attorney General described the external court sessions, a milestone and a vital move toward ensuring that every West African citizen is informed about their right to a fair hearing and access to justice, as well as how to effectively engage with the judicial system. The sessions will be seen as a platform for fostering stronger collaboration among West African nations and their legal institutions. Pedro emphasized that “the current administration is deeply committed to enhancing judicial systems and aligning them with international best practices.” “This initiative reaffirms our commitment to justice that transcends borders and serves all people, regardless of creed, status, or affiliation.” He however concluded with an appeal to the public and legal professionals in attendance to observe proceedings with decorum and to take full advantage of the insights offered through the sessions. Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, extended gratitude to the State Government and all dignitaries, justices, and stakeholders whose support and participation have made this important judicial outreach possible. Attendees at the Opening Ceremony of the External Court Sessions includes the Chief Justice of the Federation, Hon. Justice Kekere Ẹkun; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba; Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary MoJ, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; Directors and Counsel in the Ministry of Justice, Representatives of the Judiciary (Nigeria and ECOWAS), NBA, Lagos Commissioner of Police,Facilitators, Foreign Dignitaries and Law Students.

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PRESS RELEASE-LAGOS AG WELCOMES ECOWAS COURT’S SENSITIZATION OUTREACH.

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… Reaffirms Lagos’ Commitment to Regional Justice and Human Rights. Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN on Monday, welcomed the Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to Lagos for its 3day sensitization outreach programme, at The Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The program ,aimed at increasing public awareness about the Court’s mandate, procedures, and role in promoting Justice and human rights across the West African sub-region is scheduled for May 5th -7th,2025 Delivering his remarks at the opening ceremony, the Attorney General expressed deep honour and a strong sense of duty in addressing participants, stating that Lagos State is proud to host and support such a significant engagement. Pedro described the initiative as both a privilege and a responsibility for the State, which remains committed to strengthening collaboration with ECOWAS institutions in the promotion of justice, the rule of law, and human rights across the region. He highlighted the historical development of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, noting that although ECOWAS was established by the 1975 Treaty of Lagos, the Court itself came into being with the Protocol of 1991, and was fully recognised as an institution of ECOWAS under the 1993 Revised Treaty. “The 2005 Supplementary Protocol, which expanded the Court’s jurisdiction to include human rights claims by individuals, was identified as a turning point for access to justice in West Africa” the AG said. The Attorney General also reaffirmed Lagos State’s alignment with the ideals of the ECOWAS Court and commended its pivotal role in interpreting regional laws, addressing employment disputes involving ECOWAS, and holding member states accountable for human rights violations. He further emphasized the importance of preserving the balance between regional and domestic justice systems by encouraging the exploration of local remedies before seeking regional adjudication, except where such remedies are ineffective or unduly delayed. “This principle not only safeguards the sovereignty of member states but also reinforces the ECOWAS Court as a complementary, rather than substitutive, judicial institution.” Pedro stated. He encouraged legal practitioners in Lagos and beyond to deepen their understanding of the Court’s procedures, admissibility criteria, and jurisprudence. Doing so, he said, would empower citizens to access justice through all available mechanisms; local, national, and sub-regional. The A.G spotlighted Lagos State’s ongoing reforms in access to justice, particularly through the Lagos Multi-Door Courthouse (LMDC), the first court-connected Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) centre in Nigeria. He noted that this innovation has significantly eased the burden on the courts and provided faster, more flexible, and less adversarial pathways to justice. He expressed optimism that the ECOWAS Court would explore the integration of ADR mechanisms within its own processes, citing Lagos’ model as an example of how innovation and responsiveness to citizens’ needs can transform judicial systems. “As we consider the future of regional justice in West Africa,” the Attorney General stated, “Lagos remains committed to advancing models that are people-centred and justice-focused.” Concluding his address, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, urged members of the NBA and the wider legal community to actively engage with the ECOWAS Court while taking advantage of the opportunities it presents. “True regional integration must go beyond politics and economics, and be anchored in shared values of justice, dignity, and the rule of law”, He reaffirmed Pedro commended the ECOWAS Court for bringing this meaningful engagement to Lagos, the commercial and legal hub of West Africa; and expressed hope that the programme would serve as a foundation for deeper collaboration and stronger regional institutions. Attendees at the Opening Ceremony includes the Chief Host; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Chief Justice of the Federation, Hon. Justice Kekere Ẹkun; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba; Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary MoJ, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; Directors and Counsel in the Ministry of Justice, Representatives of the Judiciary (Nigeria and ECOWAS), NBA, Lagos Commissioner of Police,Facilitators foreign dignitaries and Law Students.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS COMMISSIONS NEW JUDICIARY FACILITIES TO STRENGTHEN ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE

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In a major stride toward enhancing the justice delivery system, the Lagos State Government, today, Friday 2nd of May, 2025, commissioned two critical judicial infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening the administration of justice and promoting rule of law in the State. These include the newly constructed Deputy Sheriff Warehouse in Majidun, Ikorodu, and the Magistrates’ Official Quarters in Ketu, Lagos. Speaking at the ceremony, the Governor of Lagos State; Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to judicial reform and institutional development; describing the projects as a “clear statement of intent,”. “These are not just buildings, but symbols of a government that understands the importance of structure in justice delivery,” Sanwo-Olu stated. He highlighted the warehouse as a critical step toward transparent and secure handling of court-ordered property executions and praised the Judiciary’s new initiative to protect perishable goods under appeal. On the Magistrates’ Quarters, the Governor noted that dignified housing is essential to supporting judicial independence and performance. “Magistrates must be able to focus on their vital role without the distraction of housing insecurity,” he said. Governor Sanwo-Olu also endorsed ongoing efforts to amend the Lagos State Tenancy Law, aimed at addressing rent-related challenges and fast-tracking tenancy dispute resolution. “These milestones further our vision of a Lagos where justice is accessible, efficient, and fair. We are building a judiciary that inspires confidence, protects rights, and serves as a cornerstone of democracy,” the Governor concluded. Speaking earlier, the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), hailed the initiatives as a demonstration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to good governance, justice sector reform, and the THEMES+ agenda. The Deputy Sheriff Warehouse, a first of its kind in the State, provides a secure, organized, and professionally managed space to preserve properties under judicial execution; particularly those subject to appeal and stays of execution. “This development institutionalizes an orderly and transparent system that protects property rights while preserving the integrity of the court’s decisions,” Mr. Pedro stated. In an innovative move, the Lagos State Judiciary will now also facilitate the sale of perishable or time-sensitive goods under appeal with proceeds held in trust, ensuring value preservation while litigation is ongoing. Further reinforcing judicial welfare, the Governor commissioned 34 newly built three-bedroom flats as official residences for magistrates, marking the first of such initiatives in Lagos State. “This is a deliberate effort to ensure that our magistrates can carry out their demanding duties without the burden of accommodation instability,” the Attorney-General added. The event also provided an opportunity to announce the Lagos State Executive Council’s recent approval of amendments to the Tenancy Law, which aims to curb exploitative rent increase and fast-track tenancy dispute resolution within 3 to 6 months. A bill to that effect has been forwarded to the State House of Assembly for legislative action. These initiatives underscore the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to justice, welfare, and inclusive development; concluding that: “Every infrastructure project is ultimately about people, ensuring that government works for everyone, from the most powerful to the most vulnerable.” Also in attendance includes The Deputy Governor of Lagos State,Dr Obafemi Hamzat, Chief Judge of Lagos State,Hon.Justice kazeem Alogba, Lagos High Court Judges, Magistrates, rep of the NBA, and critical stakeholders in the justice sector graced the ceremony.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS COURT SENTENCES OMINIKORON TO DEATH FOR THE MURDER OF OLUWABAMISE AYANWOLA

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The Lagos State High Court sitting at Tafawa Balewa Square has sentenced BRT driver Andrew Nice Ominikoron to death by hanging for the murder of 22-year-old Oluwabamise Ayanwola and the sexual assault of two other women. The presiding judge, Justice Sherifat Sonaike found Ominikoron guilty of murder, rape, and sexual assault after a high-profile trial. Ominikoron pleaded not guilty while facing a five-count charge filed by the Lagos State Government, including one count of murder, two counts of rape, and two counts of conspiracy. He was linked to Bamise’s death through CCTV footage, call logs, and medical reports. She had gone missing on February 26, 2022, after boarding a BRT bus he was driving, and her body was discovered days later, sparking nationwide outrage. The court also discovered he raped Maryland Ojiezelu and sexually assaulted Dr. Anosike Victoria in similar incidents. Justice Sonaike found the evidence to be clear and consistent, establishing that Ominikoron had exploited his position to prey on female passengers. Convinced that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt, she sentenced him to death by hanging. The Prosecution was led by Director Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins, Mr. Moshood Olateju, Mr. Alaba Kuku and Ms. Tolu Onilado. The judgment has been hailed as a landmark ruling and a step forward in the fight against gender-based violence in Nigeria.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS AG PAYS TRIBUTE TO LATE JUSTICE IBITOLA A. SOTUMINU AT VALEDICTORY COURT SESSION

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The Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, on Tuesday 15th of April, addressed the legal community in a solemn valedictory court session to honour the life and legacy of former Chief Judge of Lagos State, late Hon. Justice (Dr.) Ibitola A. Sotuminu (OON), held at the Lagos State High Court, Osborne Foreshore, Ikoyi. Mr. Pedro highlighted her remarkable dedication to the advancement of the judiciary, gender equality, and legal reform. He also praised her philanthropic efforts through the founding of the Home Concept Foundation for Elderly Support (HOMECOF), and her national recognitions, including the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2008. Pedro urged everyone to draw from her example stating that every judge present should remember that integrity on the Bench is not an ornament but an obligation. “Let every legal practitioner strive not only for competence but for compassion. Let those in public service recognise that power is transient, but legacy is enduring; and it is shaped, as that of Honourable Justice Sotuminu was, by how we serve others.” In closing, the AG emphasized that it is not enough to merely eulogise the former Chief Judge, late Hon. Justice Sotuminu’s achievements, her values must also be internalised. He further urged the legal community to walk in the path she carved with such grace and resolve, noting that her legacy should continue to inspire a judiciary that is fearless, faithful, and fair. Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Justice, the Judiciary, the Nigerian Bar, and all who had the privilege of working with her. “May her memory remain a blessing and a guiding light to us all,” he concluded.

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