Lagos State Ministry of Justice

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Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE: PLANNED PROTEST

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….LASG urges adherence to Court Judgement on designated protest locations The attention of Lagos State Government has been drawn to the reports circulating in the media regarding planned protests scheduled for today April 7, 2025. While the State Government acknowledges the fundamental rights of citizens to association and assembly to convene public protest, it also has the obligation to protect other citizens’ fundamental rights not to be disturbed by the protest. Therefore, it is crucial to emphasize that the exercise of these fundamental rights by the protesters must be conducted within the bounds of the law and with due regard for public safety and order. The State Government wishes to draw the attention of the general public, especially the Take it Back Movement, the organisers of the planned protest to a judgement of the High Court of Lagos State in Suit No LD/8409GCM/2024 between the Attorney General of Lagos State and Adamma Benita Ukpabi & Ors delivered on Thursday January 30, 2025 which restricted protests in Lagos State to two designated locations to wit: Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Park, Ojota, Lagos State and Peace Park, Ketu, Lagos State. The court further held that any organizer or protester who participates in protests outside these designated areas shall be responsible and liable jointly and severally in damages for any injury or loss or for the destruction of properties of any citizen or government occasioned in the process of exercising their fundamental rights to association and assembly to convene public protest. Therefore, the Lagos State Government strongly advises all organizers and participants to adhere to the court’s judgement and ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of any planned protest within the designated places. In addition, organizers are advised to notify the Nigeria Police Force so as to provide security and protection at the designated places. The Lagos State Government is committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. Therefore, all residents of the State are encouraged to go about their daily routines without fear of disruption. Signed:Mrs Grace AloDirector, Public AffairsLagos State Ministry of JusticeApril 7, 2025

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PRESS RELEASE: SANWO-OLU MAKES HISTORIC APPOINTMENT: SWEARS IN OLANREWAJU AS PERMANENT SECRETARY IN MINISTRY OF JUSTICE

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In a landmark move, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has sworn in Mrs. Olanrewaju Aderinsola Olubanke as a Permanent Secretary in the Lagos State Ministry of Justice. Olarewaju was sworn-in alongside 7 other Permanent Secretaries. This historic appointment marks the first time the Ministry of Justice has more than one Permanent Secretary, demonstrating the State Government’s commitment to strengthening the justice sector. During the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to enhancing governance and ensuring effective justice delivery in the State. He emphasized that these appointments are crucial for ensuring efficiency, continuity, and excellence in the civil service while upholding high standards in public administration. This unprecedented appointment signifies Lagos State’s dedication to enhancing its legal and mediation framework. With Mrs. Olanrewaju at the helm of affairs at the Citizens Mediation Bureau, the State reaffirms its focus on alternative dispute resolution as a critical tool for a One Stop Accessible and Efficient Justice elivery. During a reception held in honor of Mrs. Olanrewaju, at the conference room of the State Ministry of Justice, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, commended the State Government’s foresight in expanding leadership within the Ministry, ensuring that justice services, particularly mediation, receive the attention it deserves. “This appointment is a testament to the critical role mediation plays in our justice system,” Oyenuga stated. However, the Solicitor General further noted that Mrs. Olanrewaju’s vast experience and leadership skills make her well-suited to oversee the newly renamed Citizens Mediation Bureau, formerly known as the Citizens Mediation Center. Speaking earlier during her welcome address, Director, Directorate for Commercial Law, Mrs. Kehinde Taiwo described the appointment of a second Permanent Secretary as a historic milestone for the Ministry of Justice. She said that the appointment marks a significant step in strengthening justice administration in Lagos State. It reflects the increasing demands on the Ministry and the government’s commitment to efficient service delivery. Judges, colleagues, family and friends also took turns to offer their congratulations, highlighting Mrs. Olanrewaju’s professionalism, integrity, and deep commitment to conflict resolution and public service. Responding, Mrs. Olanrewaju noted that she was deeply honored and grateful for the appointment as Permanent Secretary and the opportunity to lead the newly renamed Citizens Mediation Bureau. “I appreciate the confidence reposed in me, and I pledge to uphold the values of fairness, integrity, and service to the people of Lagos. With the support of my colleagues and the entire justice community, I look forward to advancing the Bureau’s mission of providing effective, timely, and accessible dispute resolution for all.” Delivering the vote of thanks, the Director of the former Citizens Mediation Centre, Mrs. Abiola Oseni, thanked the Lagos State Government for strengthening mediation services and appreciated all attendees for their support. She pledged that under Mrs. Olanrewaju’s leadership, the Bureau would continue to promote peace and justice in Lagos State.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS ATTORNEY GENERAL VISITS KIRIKIRI MAXIMUM SECURITY CUSTODIAL CENTRE.

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….Announces Governor’s Approval of Two Coaster Buses for Logistics and to Ease Movement of Inmates to Courts. The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, paid an official visit to the Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre on Thursday, 13th March 2025 to take a comprehensive tour of the facility to assess the conditions and engage with both inmates and correctional officers. This visit reaffirms the Lagos State Government’s commitment to justice sector reforms and the well-being of inmates. During his tour, the Attorney General engaged directly with inmates, listened to their concerns, and reassured them of the government’s resolve to enhance the criminal justice system. He acknowledged the serene atmosphere in the facility and commended the various rehabilitative programs designed to prepare inmates for reintegration into society. Pedro further reiterated that the government is actively exploring measures to decongest correctional facilities through optimisation of initiatives such as plea bargaining, restorative justice, community service and prerogative of mercy for Governor’s pardon and release of deserving convicts. He emphasized that justice must balance the interests of the victim, the defendant, and society as a whole. As part of these efforts, Mr. Pedro, SAN, announced that although the correctional facilities are under the management and control the federal government, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has been magnanimous to approve the provision of two coaster buses to ease the transportation of inmates to and from court, ensuring timely and efficient judicial proceedings. The Controller of Corrections, G.O. Damilola, expressed appreciation for the visit and noted that the provision of the buses would significantly ease logistical challenges and enhance inmates’ access to justice. Mr. Pedro, SAN, also urged inmates to take full advantage of the educational, vocational, and skills acquisition programs available within the facility and assures that the Lagos State Government is committed to a justice system that is not only punitive but also corrective and rehabilitative. Many inmates expressed their gratitude, stating that visits such as this provide them with hope and a sense of belonging in society. The visit concluded with a renewed commitment from the Ministry of Justice and the Nigerian Correctional Service to strengthen collaboration and implement reforms that will benefit both inmates and the justice sector at large.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS AG CONFERRED HONORARY MEMBERSHIP OF THE SOCIETY FOR NOTARIES PUBLIC, COMMITS TO STRENGTHENING NOTARIAL PRACTICE.

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The Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, has been conferred as an honorary executive member of the Society for Notaries Public, recognizing his commitment to advancing notarial practice in Nigeria. Lawal Pedro was conferred during a courtesy visit by a delegation from The Society of Notaries Public led by Chief (Mrs.) Marlies Allan on Tuesday, 4th of March, 2025 at the Conference Room of the State Ministry of Justice, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. During the visit, He commended the organization’s efforts in enhancing governance and professional standards in notarial services. Pedro emphasized the crucial role of notaries in ensuring the authenticity and credibility of legal documents, drawing from best practices in jurisdictions like the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and France, where notarial services significantly reduce fraud. Acknowledging the Society’s diverse and distinguished membership, the A.G pledged full support for initiatives that strengthen notarial practice in Lagos State and Nigeria. He reiterated his office’s commitment to fair, efficient, and accessible justice administration and welcomed further collaboration with the Society to elevate Nigeria’s notarial standards to international levels. Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, expressed gratitude for the honorary membership and looked forward to a fruitful partnership with the Society. Speaking earlier at the visit, President and Master of Notaries, Chief (Mrs.) Marlies Allan, restated the critical role of notaries in ensuring the integrity of legal documents, reducing fraud, and enhancing governance. She stated that since the formation of the Society for Notaries Public, it has been at the forefront of professionalizing notarial services in Nigeria, particularly with the introduction of digital notarization under the Notaries Public Act, 2023. “The new law enables notaries to authenticate documents electronically, conduct remote notarizations, and use digital seals and signatures; aligning Nigeria’s notarial system with global best practices”, Allan said. Chief Allan further explained that The Society is collaborating with the Supreme Court and technology partners to implement new regulations, eliminate quackery, and enhance notarial services while noting that discussions with foreign embassies are also ongoing to secure international recognition of Nigerian notaries. The President also sought the Ministry’s support for two things which includes; Mandatory Notarization of Jurat Witnessing in Registrable Deeds; and Integration of Remote Notarization with Justice IT Infrastructure. In her words; “i wish to recognize the giant strides you and your team in the Ministry are making to ensure that our justice system is strengthened for a better environment. Your support and encouragement are invaluable as we embark on a new chapter in the advancement of the notanai profession in Nigeria” Allan stated. Delivering the vote of thanks, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, extended sincere gratitude to the Hon. Attorney-General for warmly receiving the Society and for his commitment to strengthening notarial practice in Lagos State and Nigeria. He also commended The Society’s efforts in promoting excellence and advocating for reforms in notarial services. “The Ministry values this collaboration and looks forward to working together to elevate standards in Lagos and Nigeria as a whole”, Oyenuga said.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOJ: OTCI CONDUCTS TRAINING ON SPADEV FORM COMPLETION.

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In a bid to enhance efficiency and ensure accurate data reporting, a team from the Lagos State Office of Transformation, Creativity and Innovation (OTCI) visited the Ministry of Justice on Thursday, 13th February, 2025 to monitor and train officers on the proper completion of the State Performance and Development (SPADEV) form at the Ministry’s Conference Room, Secretariat, Alausa Ikeja. Speaking during his welcome address, Director, Admin & Human Resources, MoJ, Mr. Adebayo Osinaike, stated that the SPADEV form serves as a critical tool for assessing and tracking the performance of state ministries, departments and agencies; ensuring transparency, accountability, and improved service delivery. “This training will help improve our reporting standards and ensure that our submissions reflect the true impact of our work,” he stated. During the session, Director Reforms, OTCI; Mr. Otunuyi, provided a comprehensive overview of the SPADEV framework, highlighting common challenges faced in form completion and offering practical solutions. Directors and Heads of Unit, were engaged in interactive discussions to reinforce their understanding. The team also conducted a monitoring exercise to assess current reporting practices and identify areas requiring improvement. Speaking at the training, Mr. Okedara Olusegun, a representative from OTCI, emphasized the importance of accurate documentation and data entry. “The SPADEV form plays a crucial role in evaluating government performance. Properly completing it ensures that decision-makers have reliable information to drive policy improvements and better service delivery to the public,” he stated. The OTCI team reaffirmed its dedication to supporting government ministries and agencies in improving performance tracking mechanisms and ensuring compliance with best practices. Further engagements and follow-up monitoring activities are expected to sustain the momentum of this initiative. Officers in the State Ministry of Justice, expressed their appreciation for the training, noting that it provided a much needed clarity and practical guidance on data reporting procedures.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS AG RECEIVE NLC, FIDA DELEGATIONS

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The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, on Thursday, received delegations from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) on separate courtesy visits at the Ministry of Justice Conference Room, Alausa, Ikeja. Leading the NLC delegation, the Chairperson of the Lagos Chapter, Comrade Funmi Sessi, engaged in discussions aimed at strengthening the working relationship between the State Ministry of Justice and the NLC, particularly in addressing legal matters and ensuring compliance with law and order among affiliate unions. In his remarks, Mr. Pedro emphasized the Lagos State Government’s commitment to workers’ welfare under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. He highlighted the successful implementation of the new minimum wage, which surpasses that of other states, as well as the introduction of a remote work program designed to cushion the effect of the harsh economic challenges in the workforce. Pedro further explained that innovation remains a key pillar of the administration, with significant advancements in transportation, road infrastructure, and other development initiatives. Similarly, the Attorney General welcomed the FIDA delegation, led by Barrister Veronica Eze, who visited to brief him on the upcoming FIDA Multi-Stakeholder Dialogue scheduled for February 27-28 in Lagos. The event aims to facilitate discussions on critical issues surrounding gender-based violence and explore effective strategies to combat the menace in the state. The AG reiterated Lagos State’s proactive stance in addressing domestic and sexual violence, noting that the state remains ahead of others in its legislative and policy efforts. He disclosed that a bill proposing amendments to the Lagos State Domestic Violence Law is currently under consideration, reinforcing the state’s commitment to providing stronger legal frameworks for the protection of vulnerable groups. He further expressed optimism that Lagos would continue to serve as a model for other states in the fight against gender-based violence and the pursuit of justice and good governance.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS MOJ ORGANIZES PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOP FOR JUNIOR OFFICERS

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In an effort to enhance the capacity and professional skills of junior officers, the State Ministry of Justice on Tuesday commenced a two-day workshop themed “Empowering the Backbone of the Ministry for Enhanced Productivity and Service Delivery” at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry LCCI, Ikeja, Lagos. Delivering his remark at the Opening Ceremony,the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, noted that this event marks the first time in several years that the ministry is hosting a workshop of this nature, underscoring its unwavering commitment to nurturing and empowering its invaluable human resources. “This workshop will provide a unique platform for reflection, learning, and collaboration. It is not only aimed at equipping officers with practical skills but also fostering unity and enhancing the collective efficiency of our team,” Pedro stated. Mr Perdro commended the junior officers, acknowledging them as the backbone of the ministry. He praised their dedication, resilience and vital contributions, emphasizing the importance of empowering and celebrating them. He further underscored the critical role of junior officers in achieving the Ministry’s mandate and urged participants to continue demonstrating diligence and resilience in their respective duties. Earlier in his welcome address, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, highlighted the pivotal role junior officers play in the success of the Ministry. “These officers provide essential support that enables the efficient functioning of administrative, logistical, and operational processes in the ministry. Their contributions are indispensable to the overall effectiveness and success of the Ministry as a whole”. Oyenuga further emphasized the need for efficiency and professionalism, stressing that the workshop has been designed to address the unique challenges faced by these officers. He highlighted that the workshop would equip participants with practical skills and knowledge to enhance their productivity, ensuring they are better prepared to fulfill their roles and contribute meaningfully to the Ministry’s objectives. The workshop kicked off with presentations on Public Service Rules and Applications, Road Safety, Professional Conduct and Vehicle Maintenance, Workplace Hygiene, Safety and Effective Cleaning Practices, Record Management and Office Administration by Director Establishments, Ministry of Establishment & Training, Mrs. Olagbaju Bukola; Deputy Director Lagos Drivers Institute, Mr. Bajulaiye Nurudeen Babajide; Deputy Director, A&HR, PSO, Mrs. Amina Yeside Hamza; Mrs Abiuwa Adenike, and a host of other facilitators to deliver Paper presentations on Health Matters , Data Protection, Personal and Professional Development, and Effective Communication and Conflict Resolutions in the workplace. The workshop, scheduled to end on Wednesday will equip participants with requisite skills, knowledge and Technical know-how in building and enhancing professional skills and productivity.

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PRESS RELEASE: OYENUGA INDUCTED AS A LASTMA SPECIAL TRAFFIC MAYOR

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The Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Oyenuga Hameed has been inducted into the esteemed corps of Mayors of Lagos State Traffic Management Authority as a LASTMA Special Traffic Mayor on Thursday 16th January, 2025 at the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Lagos Ministry of Justice, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. The presentation, which was led by the Director of Traffic Advocacy and Special Traffic Mayor, Mr. Awoyemi Jimmy, stated that the induction was a directive from the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olawale Musa, aimed at fostering stronger partnerships to improve traffic management across Lagos. The Solicitor General expressed gratitude for his induction as a Special Traffic Mayor of LASTMA. He pledged to support the agency in easing traffic congestion across Lagos, highlighting its importance to the State’s economic growth. Oyenuga commended the LASTMA team for their dedication and thanked the Ministry of Transportation for the opportunity to contribute to this vital cause.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS DEPUTY GOVERNOR CELEBRATES OVER 5000 NEWLY TRAINED LAE ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

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Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, recently celebrated the graduation of 5,803 law enforcement officers at the Lagos State Law Enforcement Training Institute (LETI) Passing Out Parade held at the LASTMA Annex Office, Oshodi. The Deputy Governor ably represented by the Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, noted Lagos as Africa’s 5th largest economy and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to staff welfare and professional development. “LETI’s training programs have greatly improved grassroots governance, with past participants earning community trust through their professionalism. The new graduates are expected to uphold and surpass these standards”, He said. Dr. Hamzat commended LETI for improving law enforcement professionalism and trusted the new graduates to excel in their roles. He stressed the need for public cooperation, noting that security efforts succeed with community support. In his keynote address, Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, praised LETI for its professionalism, commitment, and adherence to its mandate. He asserted the government’s focus on equipping officers with the necessary skills, ensuring no one is assigned duties without proper training. The Attorney-General highlighted the new LETI law signed by Governor Sanwo-Olu, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to law and order. LETI CEO, Mrs. Abiola Adeyinka, urged the officers to prioritize integrity and professionalism, thanking Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for supporting the Institute. The ceremony highlighted the officers’ training in emotional intelligence, professionalism, and use of force, enhancing their capacity to maintain peace and order in Lagos State.

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PRESS RELEASE: OPD Commemorates International Day For Elimination Of Violence Against women and Children with Advocacy Campaign .

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Lagos State Office of Public Defender today commemorated the annual International Day For Elimination of violence against women and children with advocacy campaign held at some selected markets within Lagos Mainland Local government area. The programe themed “Orange the world :Time to Act Now” was organized to raise awareness and highlight lasting solution to stop violence against women and girls.. Among the Markets reached for the advocacy campaign rally were Oyingbo , Ido, Mokoko, Sabo and Yaba markets where the campaign teams engaged the market women about the Theme of the campaign and responsibilities of OPD Speaking during the campaign rally, the Director, Office of Public Defender, Mrs Olubunmi Adesomoju stated that annually, from November 25 to December 10, the world observes the 16 days of activism against gender- based violence, the campaign that aims to raise awareness and to mobilize action to end all forms of violence against women and girls. She said ‘ It is part of the responsibilities of OPD to provide free legal services to the indigent and vulnerable residents of the States with emphasis on issues threatening the socio-economic right of the poor as well as other disadvantaged group like women and children”. Adesomoju further states “the Agency is celebrating, commemorating and raising awareness on the violence and also for the members of Public to be more enlightened on the responsibilities and mandates of the Agency and State Government ‘s policy on Access to justice.” Olusesi OlatundeHead, Public AffairsOPD.6/12/2024

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