Lagos State Ministry of Justice

PRESS RELEASE: THE REINTRODUCTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL SANITATION EXERCISE IN LAGOS STATE-WITH FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT PRESERVED

The narration in the media on the Court of Appeal Ruling in respect of the case on environmental sanitation in Lagos is not correct. In fact the subsisting Court of Appeal judgment in CA/L/381/2015 delivered on 23rd November 2021, is in favour of State Government. The Court held that the environmental sanitation exercise in Lagos State was valid and backed by law and that the fundamental right of the Applicant Mr.Ebun Adegboruwa (now an SAN) was not breached. It was Mr. Ebun Adegboruwa who was dissatisfied with the judgment that appealed to the Supreme Court. This was a case i personally prosecuted. The Supreme Court is yet to set aside the judgment of the Court of Appeal and Unless there is a subsequent court of Appeal judgement which i am not aware of that restrained the conduct of environmental sanitation exercise in Lagos State, it will not be unlawful to have a controlled movement during the monthly environmental sanitation exercise. The November 201C, judgment of the Court of Appeal, of the same Lagos Division, in the FAITH OKAFOR vs. LAGOS STATEGOVERNMENT & ANOR, cannot be regarded as the extant position of the law and can be said to have been superceded by the current 2021 judgment of the same court. Therefore if Lagos State government choose to restrict movement during the period of environmental sanitation exercise it will not be in contravention of a subsisting judgment of the Court of Appeal. However what the government introduced is a controlled movement of residents during the period of environmental sanitation exercise without affecting the fundamental rights of movement and residents are free to go to anywhere they wish through roads and streets that are not blocked. In other words street where cleaning are on going may be blocked to protect people and officials involved in the cleaning exercise from motorists Lawal Pedro, SANHon Attorney General & Commissioner for Justice25th April,2026

REJOINDER OF THE HONOURABLE ATTORNEY GENERAL OF LAGOS STATE TO ARTICLE BY OLUSEGUN ADENIYI ON “IS LAGOS STATE SHIELDING KILLERS”.

The attention of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice has been drawn to a publication titled “Is Lagos State Shielding Killers?” by Olusegun Adeniyi and published by THISDAYLIVE of 23rd April, 2025 which has now gain traction on social media. The publication references the incident of 27th August 2025 at Owode Onirin involving Inspector Manu Bala & 4 Others and where 6 traders lost their lives. The Ministry considers it necessary to correct the serious misrepresentations and unfounded insinuations contained in the publication. At the outset, the insinuation that Lagos State may be shielding Suspects connected with the unfortunate incident is entirely false, misleading, and unsupported by facts contained in the Police case file presented to the Ministry of Justice for Legal Advice. It must be observed that when violent crimes such as Owode Onirin killing are not properly investigated by the Police and no prima facie is made out against Suspects arrested they are entitled to the benefit of doubt and to be released. In the OWODE ONIRIN KILLING – Lagos Police Command has not helped the cause of justice in the matter. We hereby set the record straight. i. Following the incident of 27th August 2025 in Owode Onirin, the Nigerian PoliceForce, Lagos Command conducted investigation into the matter and subsequently forwarded the case file to the Lagos State Ministry of Justice for review and legal advice, in line with established prosecutorial procedures as sanctioned by Section 74 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, Lagos State. ii. The Ministry undertook a thorough review of all materials in the case file, includingwitness statements, statements of the suspects and other documentary evidence and came to the conclusion that there was no evidence that linked the Suspects arrested to the alleged crime. For instance, there was no statement of an eye witness in the case file to confirm that it was the Policemen that shot the deceased persons despite the fact that the incident was said to have taken place in a market. Contrary to the insinuation against the Ministry, the evidence in the case file revealed that it was the traders that attacked the Police Officers as they got to the land in dispute, dispossessed one of them Inspector Jibrin of his service rifle which a trader began to shoot. The Police Inspector was assaulted and had to be rescued by other Policemen who rushed him to nearby hospital to safe his life and for treatment of his injuries. The evidence in the Police case file also revealed that the only civilian Suspect arrested was not at the scene of the crime and his Alibi was confirmed by the police investigators. iii. In view of the sensitive nature of the matter the Ministry of Justice restrained itself from issuing a Legal Advice of no case to answer, rather a letter was written to the Police Authority on the 30th October, 2025 to conduct further investigation and provide evidence in the following areas; a. Post mortem reports of the deceased persons (Adeoye Taiwo, Akinloye Seyi, Wale Adebayo, Abraham Idowu, Dare Mufutau Salaudeen and Adeoye Akeem Aderemi)b. Ballistics Report of bullets extracted from deceased personsc. Examination report of the rifles of the officers; that is:– Insp. Manu Bala – AK47 Breech No. T22022– Insp. Ahmed Abass – AK47 Breech No. P21266– Cpl. Ibrahim Kasimu – AK47 Breech No. AG1600– Cpl. Ibrahim Garba – AK47 Breech No. ACC 2537– Rifle assigned to Insp. Jibrin iv. Meanwhile the Suspects remained in custody and their bail applications wererejected. Therefore, when after 45 days the Police Authority failed or neglected to furnish the Ministry with the outcome of its further investigation or evidence to link the Suspects to the crime, a reminder letter dated 17th December, 2025 was forwarded to the Police Authority. v. It was about 6 months after the incarceration of the Suspects and the Ministry didnot receive any response from the Police Authority on further investigation as requested that the Ministry issued Legal Advice LJP/HOM/2025/125/20 to the dated 3rd March, 2026 based on available facts contained in the duplicate case file to the effect that no prima facie case has been disclosed against the Suspects for the offence of Conspiracy to commit a felony or Involuntary Manslaughter contrary to Sections 411 and 224 of the Criminal Law Ch. C17 Vol. 3 Laws of Lagos State, 2011 and any charge against them be withdrawn. However, in concluding the Legal Advice it was clearly stated that the duplicate case file is retained and in the event that any evidence is discovered linking any of the Suspects to the crime, the Ministry shall not hesitate to prosecute the Suspects as there is no time bar for criminal prosecution. vi. It was after the Legal Advice was issued and served that the Police Authoritydeemed it fit to forward provisional Post Mortem Reports and Ballistic Reports to the Director of Public Prosecutions in the Ministry. The documents are being reviewed to enable the office issue comprehensive Supplementary Legal Advice devoid of emotions and sentiments. The decision not to prosecute, where evidence is insufficient, is not an act of protection—it is a constitutional and ethical obligation imposed on the Attorney-General to prevent wrongful prosecution and to uphold the integrity of the justice system. vii. Justice is not a One-Way but a Three Way Traffic –justice to the victim, justice tothe suspect and justice to the public. May we not see the day when a Justice Department will act on assumptions, suspicion, emotion or bias of the Police and not Prima Facie evidence to approve or commence prosecution of any suspect in this State or any State in Nigeria. Lagos State remains resolve in ensuring that justice is served in all cases and to all parties involved, without fear or favour. CONCLUSIONIn the light of the above, the Ministry is curious of the purpose and intent of the Police narratives to the Press on this matter. We believe that misrepresentation, misinformation and suppression of material facts in this

PRESS RELEASE ON RECOVERY OF TAX

The under listed have been taken before the Revenue Court in Lagos for prosecution and recovery from them of the assessed tax liabilities. S/N NAME AMOUNT 1 CHIDI AJAERE EMMANUEL ₦35,414,309.65k   2 IFEANYI UZOARU F. ₦13,505,132.00k   3 MRS OLUFUNMILOLA ABE ₦30,743,980.61k   4 IENG NIG LTD     ₦67,106,712.43k   5 JAMES FISHER NIG. LTD   ₦27,143,392.84k   6 V CARE DIAGNOSTICS LTD ₦14,228,739.99k   7 VENTURE GARDEN NIG LTD ₦72,274,840.07k   8 DOHENEY SERVICE ₦14,292,412.58k   9 NATIVE MEDIA LTD ₦24,105,322.44k   10 NATIVE MEDIA LTD ₦23,496,705.74k   11 SARO AFRICA INT. LTD  ₦24,457,853.33k   12 SHERIFF DEPUTIES LTD ₦132,162,259.74k   13 UNIQUE V. CAPITAL MANAG. LTD ₦12,296,738.69k   14 ALKONES PETROLEUM & GAS LTD  ₦17,746,534.52k   15 CENTURY POWER GENERATION LTD ₦18,057,892.40k   16 GMT ENERGY RESOURCES LTD ₦145,854,724.45k   17 LEADERS & COMPANY LTD ₦67,092,836.87k   18 BI-COURTNEY AVIATION SERVICES  ₦38,701,954.25k   19 HEYDEN PETROLEUM LTD ₦33,223,508.93k   20 BARRY CALLEBALT NIG LTD  ₦33,517,273.20k   21 QUICK MIX LTD ₦18,978,609.46k   22 AMOULA VENTURES LTD ₦15,614,645.80k   23 AA RESCUE  ₦27,815,988.53k   24 COMPASS POWER SOLUTION LTD  ₦22,888,982.58k   25 SODIUM BRAND SOLUTION LTD ₦16,022,719.68k   26 DAAR COMMUNICATION PLC  ₦22,433,482.482.48k 27 PRIMERO TRANSPORT SER. LTD ₦43,401,308.09k   28 TIDDO SECURITIES LTD ₦12,741,792.53k   29 FUNDS & ELECTRONICS TRANSFER   ₦97,833,404.64k 30 DEROTECH INT. LTD ₦12,938,947.07k   31 VALIANT ENERGY SERVICES WEST AFRICA ₦38,151,699.03k   32 THE BULB AFRICA ₦28,223,026.00K   33 ROYAL HERITAGE CENTER FOR LAW & CAPACITY.DEVELOPMENT ₦29,287,598.00k   34 RAYBOND TECHNICAL LTD ₦61,800,695.60k   35 OFFICE LAND LTD ₦13,809,090.63k   36 CENTRE FOR MANAGEMENT. DEVELOPMENT       ₦48,211,875.23k   37 S.O. AND U LTD        ₦38,008,508.15k   38 GBENGA BIOBAKU & CO. ₦16,070,382.79k   39 UNION DIAGNOSTICS & CLINICAL SERVICES      ₦23,617,362.02k   40 EYOWO INTREGRATED PAYMENT    ₦16,201,951.05k   41 FIRST CONS.MEDIA & CENTRE LTD  ₦28,665,445.52k   42 MAGNUMFLO RESOURCES ₦18,570,665.47k   43 DEE-JONES PETROLEUM & GAS ₦55,878,693.74k   44 AMALYA CONSULTS LTD ₦23,914,081.62k   45 COMPACT MANIFOLD & ENGINEERING SERVICES ₦24,974,599.58k   Whereas many tax defaulters who were served with pre-action notice by this office and have paid their tax liabilities will no longer be prosecuted for the breach of the Tax law. Therefore, every tax payer in Lagos State is advised to voluntarily comply with the Tax law particularly on filing of annual tax returns and payment of assessed tax liability to avoid imposition of penalty and interest as well as prosecution with its attendant consequence. Lawal Pedro SAN, FCIArb Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lagos State.

PRESS RELEASE – LAGOS FREES 43 INMATES, INTENSIFIES EFFORTS TO DECONGEST AND IMPROVE FACILITIES IN CORRECTIONAL CENTRES

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has approved the release of Forty-three (43) inmates from correctional centres across the State as part of ongoing efforts to decongest custodial centres and reform the criminal justice system. It would be recall that few months ago in December 2025, ninety-one (91) inmates were also released from the custodial centres. The decision to release inmates who were yet to complete their terms was taken pursuant to the power of prerogative of mercy, conferred on the Governor in Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The released inmates were duly recommended by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy in accordance with established legal and administrative guidelines. The exercise reflects the State Government’s unwavering commitment to upholding justice, fairness and the rule of law, alongside improving conditions within correctional centres by proactively addressing the challenges of overcrowding in custodial centres in Lagos State and ease of mobility of inmates to and from court for speedy trial. In furtherance of this commitment, the Lagos State Government had, in the preceding year, procured and delivered two (2) coaster buses to the Correctional Service to facilitate the timely and secure transportation of inmates to courts. This intervention is designed to enhance the efficiency of criminal trials and reduce delays associated with inmate logistics. In addition, the Government has embarked on the renovation and upgrade of some of the buildings in the correctional centres across the State, thereby strengthening custodial infrastructure. In light of the current Nigeria constitutional provisions, placing custodial and correctional services in the Concurrent Legislative List, it will not be out of place for the Federal Government to direct the Nigeria Correctional Services to transfer the control and management of one of the Correctional centres in Lagos State where the majority of inmates are offenders of State Laws, to Lagos State Government to address the challenges of weak oversight, inadequate funding, lack of transparency and overcrowding in the present Nigerian Correctional Facilities. Lagos State remains resolute in its commitment to justice sector reforms and will continue to implement measures that ensure a balanced approach between victims right to justice, public safety, offenders’ rehabilitation and the protection of fundamental human rights. Lawal Pedro, SANHonourable Attorney-General andCommissioner for Justice, Lagos StateIst April,2026

PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOBILE COURT CONVICTS TRAFFIC OFFENDERS IN IKORODU ENFORCEMENT EXERCISE

The Lagos State Special Offenses (Mobile) Court, on Tuesday, 17 March 2026, convicted several traffic offenders following an enforcement exercise carried out at Haruna, Ikorodu, Lagos. The offenders were arraigned before the Court, presided over by Magistrate K.A. Ariyo, for various violations of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law and other traffic regulations. After reviewing the cases, the Court delivered its judgments in accordance with the applicable laws Details of the offenders and the outcomes of their cases are as follows: Sentence:• Fine of ₦200,000 pending forfeiture• ₦20,000 fine or one month community service Sentence:• Count 1: ₦200,000 fine• Count 2: ₦20,000 fine or one month community service Sentence:• Count 1: ₦200,000 fine• Count 2: ₦20,000 fine or one month community service The defendant was found guilty on all counts, and the matter was adjourned to Tuesday, 24 March 2026 for sentencing. The Prosecution was led by Olufemi Adekunle, appearing with Oluwabusola Omotunde on behalf of the State. The Lagos State Ministry of Justice reiterates that the Mobile Court remains a vital mechanism for the prompt dispensation of justice in traffic-related offences across the State. Motorists are therefore advised to adhere strictly to traffic rules and regulations and conduct themselves responsibly on the roads, as offenders will continue to face prosecution under the law.

PRESS STATEMENT: CLARIFICATION ON LEGALITY OF LAGOS STATE VEHICLE INSPECTION SERVICE (VIS) OFFICERS ON LAGOS ROADS VIS -A -VIS JUDGMENT OF THE COURT OF APPEAL, ABUJA DIVISION ON POWER OF VIO ON ROADS IN FCT ABUJA

The attention of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice has been drawn to a viral report of misrepresentation of the Judgment of the Court of Appeal, Abuja Division which affirmed the judgement of the Federal High Court Abuja on the illegality of VIO activities of impounding or confiscating vehicles and/or imposing fines on motorists in FCT Abuja. It would be recalled that sometime last year 2025, Justice Evelyn Maha of the Federal High Court had in a judgment in a fundamental rights enforcement suit held that the Respondents in the case which included the Director of Road Transport; the Team Leader, the Area Commander Jabi; as well as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are not empowered by any law or statute to stop, impound or confiscate vehicles and/or impose fines on motorists. The Judge therefore issued an order restraining the VIO from impounding or confiscating vehicles of motorists and or imposing fines on drivers. It is important to understand that the Honorable Judge of the FHC and Justices of the Court of Appeal premised their decision on absence of statutory power conferred on the Respondents (Appellants in the court of Appeal) to stop, impound or confiscate vehicles and/or impose fines on motorists on roads in FCT Abuja. The Lagos State Government acknowledged that the said Courts’ judgments and the restraining orders made are valid in law and binding, but wishes to make the following clarification for the benefit of the public particularly in Lagos State. a. The Judgment though binding is not of general application or of nationwide effectin Nigeria. b. That only parties to the suit and any State that has no statute on VIO like FCTAbuja are bound by the judgments. c. Nigeria operates a federal system of government with clear legislative powersdonated by the Constitution to the Federal and State Governments. d. Vehicle inspections and traffic management are part of the Residual subjects forState governments Unlike the FCT Abuja, Lagos State has a Statute on VIO in the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law. Section 12(1) of the law vests The STATE VEHICLE INSPECTION SERVICE (VIS) the powers among others of; (a) inspecting, regulating and ensuring the roadworthiness of motor vehicles in theState; (b) pre-registration inspection of vehicles; (c) inspection and issuance of Road Worthiness Certificate (RWC) in respect of all vehicles; (d) cooperating with other agencies to enforce traffic rules and regulations; Section 23(1) of the same law prescribed ticket for fines payable by offenders under the law. The fine shall be paid either on the spot if it is imposed by a mobile court or within forty – eight (48) hours upon issuance of the ticket by an authorized officer. On default of payment a formal charge shall be proffered against the offender in the Magistrate Court or Mobile Court and he/she shall be given the opportunity to defend himself. The suspect/offender is also at liberty to challenge the validity of the ticket in a court of law. The process and procedure of enforcement of power of the VIS officers on Lagos roads are in accordance with the law and not unlawful or unconstitutional. Members of the public are therefore advised not to be misled by the misrepresentation of the judgements of both the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal and to cooperate with Lagos State VIS officers on Lagos roads to avoid sanctions with its attendance consequences. The Lagos State Government will continue to ensure that all transport and traffic enforcement activities on Lagos roads are conducted strictly in accordance with the laws and Regulations, with civility, decorum and respect to road users. Therefore, any motorist on Lagos roads who disobeys or assaults a VIS officer in Lagos State in the course of performance of his statutory duty will be subject to arrest and prosecution by this Ministry. Mr. Lawal Pedro, SANHonourable Attorney General andCommissioner for Justice, Lagos State.

PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS STATE DEEPENS JUSTICE SECTOR REFORMS, IMPROVES ACCESS TO JUSTICE – ATTORNEY GENERAL

The Honorable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Lagos State Government to deepening justice sector reforms, improving access to justice, and strengthening public confidence in the administration of justice across the State. The Attorney-General made this known during a media chat with Judicial Correspondents and Editors on Tuesday 10th February, 2026 at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), complex,Ikeja,where he provided comprehensive insights into key reforms and policy interventions being implemented by the Ministry of Justice. According to him, the Ministry has recorded notable improvements in case tracking mechanisms, plea bargaining processes, and the use of the Prerogative of Mercy as a strategic tool to address congestion in correctional centres across Lagos State. “We have strengthened our internal systems to ensure better case monitoring, faster resolution of matters, and more efficient prosecution processes. These reforms are deliberate and targeted at delivering timely and credible justice,” the Attorney-General stated. Pedro described the Lagos State Justice Summit held in 2024 as a major turnaround moment for the justice sector, noting that resolutions from the summit have significantly influenced recent reforms and policy directions within the Ministry. One of such outcomes, he explained, is the Administration of Civil Justice Bill, which has been passed and awaiting legislative process at the Lagos State House of Assembly. When implemented, the law will ensure that civil cases are concluded within 12 to 18 months, while tenant–landlord disputes will be resolved within three to six months, thereby reducing delays and improving access to justice for residents. The Attorney-General also highlighted the Ministry’s sustained focus on access to justice, particularly for indigent and vulnerable persons, through key institutions including the Bureau of the Public Defender (BPD), the Citizens’ Mediation Bureau (CMB), the Directorate for Citizens’ Rights, and the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA). He noted that these agencies continue to play critical roles in dispute resolution, human rights protection, victim support, and public legal education across the State. On institutional collaboration, the AG emphasized the strong working relationship between the Ministry of Justice and the Judiciary, noting that regular engagements and idea-sharing have helped to improve efficiency and policy alignment within the justice delivery system. Addressing welfare and infrastructure, he disclosed that staff quarters have been constructed for magistrates, with assurances that more are underway in line with the Governor’s commitment to improving judicial welfare and independence. He further revealed that correctional centres across Lagos State are currently undergoing renovation, as part of ongoing efforts to improve conditions for inmates and enhance security and rehabilitation outcomes. In addition, Pedro announced that the Governor recently approved the provision of purpose-built buses for the safe and dignified transportation of inmates to and from court proceedings, a move aimed at strengthening security and improving the administration of criminal justice. While addressing topical legal issues currently in the public space, the Attorney-General stressed that the Lagos State Government remains guided strictly by the rule of law and due process, urging the public to allow legal matters to run their full course. He also called on the media to deepen its partnership with the Government by doing more to project the activities of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, enlighten the public on justice sector reforms, and promote accurate and responsible reportage in the interest of good governance. “The media remains a critical partner in public enlightenment and in building trust between government and the people. We urge continued collaboration in telling the true story of justice reforms in Lagos State,” he added. The media chat concluded with a reaffirmation of the Ministry’s commitment to continuous reform, stakeholder engagement, and the delivery of a justice system anchored on efficiency, fairness, and accountability.

PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOJ HOSTS KANO STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL TO UNDERSTUDY MINISTRY’S STRUCTURE AND OPERATIONS

The Lagos State Ministry of Justice on Friday 6th of February, 2026 hosted the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kano State, Barr. Abdukarim Kabiru-Maude SAN, and his delegates on a courtesy and technical visit to understudy the Ministry’s structure, operations, and institutional framework at its Conference Room, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. Welcoming the delegation, the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, described the visit as a strategic platform for knowledge sharing and peer learning, noting that Lagos State remains committed to supporting justice sector reforms through openness, collaboration, and the exchange of best practices. Representing the Attorney-General, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, gave a detailed overview of the Ministry’s departments, units, and agencies, outlining their respective roles and functions. He highlighted the operational structure, coordination mechanisms, and ongoing reforms designed to enhance efficiency and effective service delivery, stressing that continuous innovation and capacity building are central to the Ministry’s mandate. Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Kano State, Barr. Abdulkarim Kabiru-Maude SAN, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and professionalism of the Lagos State Ministry of Justice. He noted that the visit was informed by Lagos State’s reputation as a leading authority in justice sector administration, adding that the delegation was keen to understudy its institutional processes, policy execution strategies, and service delivery models. He further affirmed Kano State’s commitment to strengthening its justice system through strategic partnerships and sustained engagement, noting that lessons drawn from the visit would support ongoing reforms and institutional development in the state. During her vote of thanks, the Permanent Secretary Citizen Mediation Bureau, Mrs. Aderinsola Olanrewaju, expressed appreciation to the Lagos Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, for his leadership and support, as well as the visiting delegation led by the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Kano State for the fruitful engagement and knowledge-sharing session. Olanrewaju noted that the visit further reinforced the Ministry’s commitment to collaboration and institutional learning, adding that Lagos State remains open to sustained partnerships with sister states aimed at strengthening justice sector administration and service delivery nationwide. The visit featured interactive sessions, presentations, and engagements with key departments of the Ministry, bolstering a shared commitment to collaboration, capacity enhancement, and effective justice delivery.

PRESS RELEASE: JUSTICE ON WHEELS LAGOS SENSITIZES RESIDENTS ON TRAFFIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL LAWS

As part of its ongoing efforts to educate members of the public on compliance with environmental and traffic laws, the Lagos State Government, through the Special Offences (Mobile) Court, on Friday, 30th January 2025, conducted a public sensitization programme at the Lagos Safety Arena and other key locations including Oshodi, Iyana Ipaja, Ojota, and Ikorodu. The sensitization exercise, themed “Justice on Wheels: Know the Law, Keep Lagos Clean, Safe and Orderly,” focused on key areas including one-way violations, misuse of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lanes, and obstruction of public spaces. The Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, ably represented by the Director, Citizens’ Rights, Mr. Ogunsanya Jonathan, emphasized the State Government’s commitment to justice, stating that it is accessible, corrective, and people-centered. “The Mobile Court is not only an instrument of enforcement but also a vital platform for public education. Through sensitization exercises like this, we seek to prevent infractions by ensuring that citizens clearly understand their rights, responsibilities, and the consequences of violating the law,” he said. Mr. Pedro further reiterated that the Lagos State Government remains resolute in adopting lawful and humane approaches to strengthen civic responsibility and uphold the rule of law across the State. Earlier, the Coordinator of the Special Offences (Mobile) Court, Mr. Olufemi Adekunle, explained that the sensitization programme was designed to bridge the information gap between the justice system and the public. “Our goal is to reduce avoidable offences by bringing legal knowledge directly to the people. When citizens understand the law, compliance becomes easier and enforcement less necessary,” he said. Also speaking at the event, the Chairman, Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences, CSP Adetayo Akerele, stated that environmental cleanliness and traffic discipline are central to public safety in Lagos State. He stressed that offences such as obstruction, misuse of BRT lanes, and driving against traffic undermine the State’s efforts to keep Lagos clean, safe, and orderly, urging residents to comply with existing laws for the collective good of all. The event featured interactive engagements with the public at various bus stops, distribution of fliers, and practical explanations of common offences and penalties handled by the Special Offences (Mobile) Court. Members of the public were encouraged to comply with traffic regulations, uphold environmental cleanliness, and carry out their daily activities in accordance with the law, as the Ministry of Justice remains committed to promoting a just, orderly, and law-abiding State.

PRESS RELEASE – MOJ REWARDS OUTSTANDING OFFICERS, CELEBRATES RETIREES

The Lagos State Ministry of Justice (MOJ) on Tuesday, 30 December 2025, rewarded outstanding officers who demonstrated exceptional commitment and diligence in the discharge of their duties throughout the year. The ceremony, held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, also featured a special celebration of members of staff who retired meritoriously from the service of the State. Speaking at the Ministry’s Year 2025 Merit Awards and End-of-Year Ceremony, the Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, commended the award recipients and all members of staff for their unwavering dedication to duty. He noted that the Ministry’s effective leadership and recorded successes are a product of collective effort, teamwork, and collaboration among staff across departments, units, and agencies. According to the Attorney-General, the relative peace, orderliness, and safety currently enjoyed in Lagos State are largely attributable to the diligence and professionalism of law enforcement officers, prosecutors, legislative drafters, and other justice sector stakeholders. Mr. Pedro charged staff to continually evaluate their performance, make necessary improvements where required, and strive for higher standards of excellence in the coming year. He congratulated the award winners and urged them to sustain their commitment to excellence, stressing that only the best is acceptable in service to the people of Lagos State. The Attorney-General also celebrated the retiring officers for their years of dedicated and meritorious service, describing their contributions to the Ministry and the State as invaluable and worthy of recognition. In his remarks, the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, expressed delight at the impressive turnout of staff, noting that the merit awards serve as a morale booster and a catalyst for enhanced productivity. He congratulated the award recipients and encouraged them to put in even greater effort in the year ahead, adding that the reward for hard work is more work. Mr. Oyenuga also paid glowing tribute to the retirees, applauding their dedication and the lasting legacy of service they leave behind. Awards were presented in both senior and junior categories, with winners emerging from various departments, units, and agencies within the Ministry.

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