Lagos State Ministry of Justice

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Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOJ, COMMUNITY SERVICE SENSITIZES STAKEHOLDERS ON PRISON DECONGESTION

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…Deepens Public Understanding of Community Service Provisions Under the ACJL The Lagos State Ministry of Justice, through its Community Service Unit (CSU), held a sensitization and medical outreach on Wednesday, 26th November 2025, at the Lagos Island Local Government Secretariat, Broad Street, Lagos Island. The event, themed “Justice that Serves the Community,” engaged residents of Lagos Island East and West Local Government Areas. Speaking at the event, the Chairman of All Chairmen in the 36 States, Mr. Williams, stressed that obedience to the laws of the land promotes safety, health, and responsibility. He noted that Community Service is not just an activity but a mindset that enhances security efforts and supports the growth of a peaceful and progressive society. He further stated that no administration can succeed without law and order.“This meeting is a call to action and a call to volunteer more,” he declared, urging citizens to work hand in hand with government as a duty, not a favour. Mr. Williams added that a city without laws cannot thrive, emphasizing the importance of civic responsibility and adherence to government regulations. Delivering the keynote address, the Director of Community Service, Mrs. Tomi Bodude, explained that the programme aims to deepen public understanding of Community Service as a lawful non-custodial sentence under the Lagos State Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL). She noted that Community Service rehabilitates minor offenders, restores public confidence, decongests correctional facilities, and prevents first-time offenders from mixing with hardened criminals. She also urged residents not to stigmatise individuals serving Community Service, stressing their capacity for reform and reintegration. In his Goodwill message, the Chairman of Lagos Island East Local Government, Muibi Alade Folawiyo, represented by the Vice-Chairman, Mrs. Balogun Monsurat Oluwatosin, reaffirmed the Area’s support for the State Government’s initiative. Similarly, the Chairman of Lagos Island West Local Government, Hon. Taiwo Ajibade Oyekan, represented by the Vice-Chairman, Hon. Issa Arulai Olatunji Folami, commended the Ministry for educating the public on opportunities for offenders to rebuild their lives. The sensitization programme recorded strong participation across both Local Government Areas, with over 400 participants drawn from Lagos Island West and Lagos Island East. Attendees were mainly market leaders and elderly members of the community. The medical outreach also recorded significant impact, with 50 beneficiaries each from Lagos Island West and Lagos Island East. Free health services provided included malaria testing, blood pressure checks, blood sugar tests, distribution of medications, and health education for participants. Furthermore,The Director of Community Service expressed appreciation to all stakeholders, including Lagos Island Local Government officials, medical personnel, security agencies, partner organisations, and community members, for their collaboration and support. Mrs Bodude concluded by noting that the medical outreach demonstrates government’s commitment to community wellbeing through the provision of essential health services such as consultations, screenings, and health education.

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CLARIFICATION ON THE RELEASE OF OLANREWAJU JAMES (A.K.A. “BABA IJESHA”) FROM CORRECTIONAL FACILITY.

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My attention has been drawn to the false and misleading statements regarding the release of convicted OLANREWAJU JAMES (A.K.A. “BABA IJESHA”) from the correctional facility. According to one Mr. Yomi Fabiyi, in a post shared on his Instagram page on Friday evening and published on 14th November 2025 in the Daily Post Newspaper Baba Ijesha was freed after being cleared by the Appeal Court. He stated further “I am also happy you were cleared by the APPEAL COURT of ever having sex/defile any child/minor. The 7-year-old story is a charade. We live in a terrible world, where sentiments and wickedness rise above the rule of law and truth.” This rebuttal is to clarify the release of Olanrewaju James, popularly known as “Baba Ijesha”, from the correctional facility and to correct the misinformation spearheaded by Mr. Fabiyi and currently circulating in the public domain. I. On 14 July 2022, the High Court of Lagos State convicted Mr. Olanrewaju James of the offences of sexual assault and indecent treatment of a child, which incident occurred in 2013–2014 and 2021. He was sentenced to 5 years’ imprisonment for sexual assault and 3 years for indecent treatment of a child on the 5 counts charge. II. Mr. James appealed to the Court of Appeal, Lagos Division in Appeal No. CA/LAG/CR/544/2023 and judgment was delivered on 28 June 2024. The Court of Appeal acquitted him of the offences alleged to have been committed in 2013–2014, contained in Counts 2 and 3 of the charge but affirmed his conviction and sentence relating to the offences committed in 2021, contained in Counts 4 and 5. III. The affirmed sentences were 5 years for sexual assault and 3 years for indecent treatment of a child, to run concurrently. IV. Dissatisfied with the judgment of the Court of Appeal, Mr. James filed a further appeal to the Supreme Court in Suit No. SC/CR/757/2024 and on 29 May 2025, the Supreme Court struck out the appeal due to its incompetence. V. Thereafter, vide Suit No. SC.ML/333/2025,Mr. James filed a motion for leave to file a fresh appeal from the judgment of the Court of Appeal but on the 9th October 2025, the Supreme Court dismissed his motion for leave to appeal, leaving the decision of the Court of Appeal fully intact. Therefore Mr. Olanrewaju James’s release was not as a result of the Appeal court overturning his conviction or sentence. He was released solely because he has fully served his punishment and imprisonment term affirmed by the Court of Appeal contrary to the misinformation in the public domain. Mr. Olanrewaju James, popularly known as “Baba Ijesha” was not cleared of having committed offenses of sexual assault and indecent treatment of a child. The statements made by Mr. Fabiyi are therefore false, misleading, and irresponsible. Members of the public are hereby urged to disregard the same and Mr. Fabiyi is advised to desist from repeating or spreading the false statements in his own interest otherwise he and any media platform use in repeating or spreading such misinformation may be liable for criminal prosecution by the office of the Attorney General for the offense of publication of false news with intent to cause fear and alarm to the public contrary to Section 39 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, Ch. C17, Vol. 3, Laws of Lagos State 2015. Mr. Lawal Pedro, SANHonorable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State.17th November, 2025.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOJ ORGANIZES COLLOQUIUM AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING

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… clamours for a united continental action against ritual abuse and sacrifice. The Lagos State Ministry of Justice, in partnership with the Sudreau Global Justice Institute, Pepperdine University, USA, has hosted the Inaugural 2025 Africa Colloquium Against Human Trafficking at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA. The event, themed “A United Front Against Ritual Abuse and Sacrifice,” brought together leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders in the justice system. Speaking during the opening ceremony, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro SAN, described the program as a “continental call to conscience and an urgent movement to reclaim the sanctity of human life in Africa. He called for a united continental action against ritual abuse and human sacrifice, emphasizing that the time has come for Africa to confront these crimes with courage, coordination, and conviction. Pedro also stated that ritual abuse and human sacrifice are no longer myths or isolated incidents but expanding criminal enterprises destroying lives across communities. “Too often, these crimes are treated as customs shrouded in silence and buried by fear,but silence has never protected the vulnerable; silence only protects the oppressor.” Citing recent tragic cases, the AG recounted several incidents across Nigeria, including the abduction and murder of two seven-year-old cousins, Chizaram and Chidinma Onuche, in Port Harcourt; the ritual killing of a 23-year-old student by a cleric in Ilorin; and the arrest of two pastors found with coffins and human skulls in Rivers State. Pedro referenced a data from the National Bureau of Statistics indicating that over 150 ritual killings were recorded in Nigeria within six months, many involving young persons deceived by the lure of “quick wealth.” He noted that between 2022 and 2024, over 4,753 victims of trafficking were rescued and supported by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), whose Commander serves as Co-Chair of the Lagos Task Force. He added that the State has expanded its shelters to support survivors, including minors and persons with disabilities; reached over five million residents through awareness campaigns; trained 109 community anti-trafficking advocates; and provided psychosocial and reintegration support to hundreds of survivors. Highlighting one of the State’s most recent legal milestones, the Attorney General recalled the enactment of the Lagos State Organ Harvesting Prohibition Law 2024, which criminalises the removal, sale, or trafficking of human organs under any guise. The law imposes stringent penalties on offenders, including medical practitioners and criminal syndicates involved in organ trafficking. The AG emphasized that the fight against human trafficking cannot be won by any nation alone, calling for stronger regional collaboration and unity across Africa. Concluding his address, Pedro urged delegates to use the two-day colloquium to strengthen partnerships and reaffirm their shared commitment to protecting human dignity, stating that only through unity and cooperation can Africa safeguard its most vulnerable and uphold the value of human life.

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PRESS RELEASE-LAGOS CHAMPIONS PRO BONO AND PUBLIC INTEREST LAW ACROSS AFRICA

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The Lagos State Government through the Ministry of Justice has reaffirmed its leadership in justice sector innovation and reform, as the Public Interest Law Partnership (PILP), in collaboration with PILnet, The Global Network for Public Interest Law, successfully hosted the 2025 Pro Bono Week and the inaugural African Regional Convening on Pro Bono and Public Interest Lawyering in Lagos. The three-day event brought together senior policymakers, members of the Bar and Bench, civil society leaders, and international partners to strengthen the pro bono culture and expand access to justice across Africa. The Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, delivered remarks at the opening plenary alongside other distinguished guests including, former Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Mr. Ade Ipaye; Chair, UK Pro Bono Week,Toby Brown; PILnet Board Member, Kim Reed; and Co-Executive Director, PILnet, Julia Mayerhofer. Highlights of the event include; a welcome reception hosted by Banwo & Ighodalo, the launch of PILP’s Pro Bono Recognition List, panel discussions on civic engagement and regional collaboration, legal clinics, and a Legal Tech Exhibition showcasing PILP’s upgraded AI-powered justice portal. Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of PILP, Funmi Ayeni, emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in expanding access to justice, noting that technology remains vital to meeting modern justice challenges. Ayeni affirmed that the success of the convening further underscores Lagos State’s pioneering role in promoting public interest law and deepening the culture of pro bono service across Africa.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS ATTORNEY GENERAL CAUTIONS LAWMAKERS: CENTRAL GAMING BILL VIOLATES SUPREME COURT JUDGMENT

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Lagos State Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, has cautioned members of the National Assembly against proceeding with the proposed Central Gaming Bill, describing it as unconstitutional and a direct violation of a subsisting Supreme Court judgment which vests the power to regulate lotteries, gaming, and betting exclusively in the States. Speaking during a press briefing held on Wednesday, 15th October, 2025, at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, the Hon. Attorney General , emphasized that the Supreme Court, in its landmark judgment delivered on 13th October, 2024, in Suit No. SC/1/2008 – AG Lagos State & 22 Ors v. AG Fed & 13 Ors, had clearly ruled that lotteries, betting, and gaming are residual matters that fall within the exclusive legislative competence of the States, except in the Federal Capital Territory. He warned that proceeding with the Central Gaming Bill, which seeks to repeal the National Lottery Act and regulate all forms of online and remote gaming across the country, would amount to legislating in defiance of the Supreme Court’s authority, violating the Constitution, and overstepping the constitutional boundaries of federalism. According to him, “Once the Supreme Court has made a decision on a subject, it becomes final and binding on all persons and authorities in the Federal Republic of Nigeria; including the Executive and the Legislature. To now attempt to legislate again on the same subject is to defy the Supreme Court, to violate the Constitution, and to invite constitutional chaos.” Pedro further noted that the argument by proponents of the Bill that it only seeks to regulate online lotteries and gaming is legally baseless, stating that “the use of technology does not change the character of the activity. Whether a lottery ticket is sold physically or online, the essential activity remains the same; a game of chance conducted within the territory of a State.” He cautioned that if the National Assembly proceeds with the Bill, it would not only amount to contempt of court but also trigger another round of legal disputes that could have been avoided. In conclusion, the Attorney General urged the Senate to decline concurrence to the Central Gaming Bill (HB.2062) in the interest of the Rule of Law, constitutionalism, federalism, and national stability. “This is not about Lagos State,it is about Nigeria, about protecting the integrity of the Supreme Court and preserving the federation as our Constitution envisions it” He said. Earlier in his opening remarks,the Hon. Commissioner, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, noted that the briefing underscores the Lagos State Government’s unwavering commitment to transparency, constitutional order, and respect for the rule of law. He stated that the proposed Central Gaming Bill raises fundamental constitutional questions regarding the limits of legislative powers and the authority of the Supreme Court, making it imperative for the public to be properly informed.Omotoso therefore urged for proper dissemination of this information in order to protect the integrity of the constitution. Also in attendance includes the Lagos Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary,Mr Hameed Oyenuga,MD/CEO Lagos State Lotteries Board, Mr. Bashir Abiola-Are and Directors from both the State Lotteries Board and ministry of justice.

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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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