Lagos State Ministry of Justice

Committed to bringing justice to your doorstep

Press Releases

PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS AG RECEIVE NLC, FIDA DELEGATIONS

Posted on

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.

Read More

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

Posted on

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.

Read More

PRESS RELEASE: OYENUGA INDUCTED AS A LASTMA SPECIAL TRAFFIC MAYOR

Posted on

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.

Read More

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

Posted on

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.

Read More

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

Posted on

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

Read More

PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS APPOINTS SOLICITOR GENERAL AND PERMANENT SECRETARY

Posted on

The Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Friday, 22nd November 2024, appointed and swore-in Mr. Oyenuga Hameed Olanrewaju as the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Justice. Mr. Oyenuga was sworn-in alongside other newly appointed Permanent Secretaries in a ceremony held at the Lagos House, Ikeja. Born on November 30, 1966, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Mr. Hameed Olanrewaju Oyenuga attended Jamatul-Islamiyyah Primary School and Government College, Ikorodu, before earning his Law degree (LL.B Hons.) from Rivers State University of Science and Technology in 1989 Oyenuga was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1990 and began his career as a Legal Officer with the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission in 1991. Over the years, he served across all Local Governments in Lagos State before transitioning to the Ministry of Justice in 2006, where he rose to the position of Director of Civil Litigation in 2013, coordinating litigation for and in defence of the State Civil cases until his appointment as SG/PS. A member of both the Nigerian and International Bar Associations, Mr. Oyenuga has attended numerous local and international conferences, seminars, and management courses. Known for his commitment to excellence in civil litigation,he is married with children and enjoys reading and traveling at his leisure time.

Read More

PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS ATTORNEY GENERAL CHARGE NEWLY APPOINTED SOLICITOR GENERAL AND PERMANENT SECRETARY ON UPHOLDING JUSTICE AND INTEGRITY

Posted on

The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, has called on Mr. Oyenuga Hameed Olanrewaju, the newly appointed Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, to prioritize upholding justice, fairness, and integrity in his new role. The charge was disclosed at the reception organized by the Ministry of Justice on Friday, 22nd November, 2024 at the Conference room, Secretariat Alausa, Ikeja. Speaking at the reception, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, highlighted the critical role of the Solicitor General in ensuring the effective administration of justice. “This is a position of immense responsibility, and I have no doubt that Mr. Hameed Oyenuga will rise to the occasion. I urge him to continue demonstrating the integrity and professionalism for which he is known and to focus on fostering trust in our legal system,” the Attorney General stated. In his remarks, Mr. Oyenuga expressed gratitude to the Governor, Attorney General and members of staff in the ministry for the opportunity and pledged to serve with dedication and transparency. “This appointment is both an honor and a responsibility. I am committed to ensuring that the Ministry of Justice remains a beacon of fairness and accountability in Lagos State,” he affirmed. The reception was attended by dignitaries, family, and friends who lauded Mr. Oyenuga’s track record of excellence and dedication to service. They described him as a man deeply committed to fairness and justice, both in his professional and personal life. Close friends and colleagues shared personal stories, praising his humility, resilience, and dedication. The event concluded with renewed optimism for the Ministry of Justice as Mr. Oyenuga Hameed Olanrewaju begins his tenure with a firm resolve to uphold the values of justice, fairness, and the rule of law in Lagos State. Mr. Oyenuga Hameed Olanrewaju, born on November 30, 1966, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, attended Jamatul-Islamiyyah Primary School and Government College, Ikorodu, before earning his Law degree from Rivers State University of Science and Technology. Called to the Nigerian Bar in 1990, he began his career as a Legal Officer with the Lagos State Local Government Service Commission in 1991 and worked in various local Government as a legal Officer.In 2006,he was redeployed to the Mainstream of the Lagos State Public Service and posted the Ministry of Justice. He rose through the ranks in various departments within MOJ especially the Directorate of Civil Litigation, coordinating litigation for and in defense of the State Civil cases. A member of both the Nigerian and International Bar Associations, he has attended numerous local and international conferences, seminars, and management courses. He is married with children and enjoys reading and traveling in his leisure time.

Read More

PRESS RELEASE: PREROGATIVE OF MERCY

Posted on

SANWO-OLU APPROVES RELEASE OF 55 INMATES. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu recently, on the 15th of October, 2024 on the recommendations of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy has approved the release of 55 inmates from various correctional facilities across the State.The release order was for the immediate release of 40 inmates while others are to be released after serving additional term of between 3 – 6 months. This is in exercise of the Governors powers under Section 212 (1) & (2) of the 1999 Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria (As amended). The approval for the release of the inmates is also in line with the commitment of Mr.Governor to decongest correctional facilities in Lagos State as part of the Justice Sector Reforms in the State. The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy in reaching it’s recommendations exercised due diligence in its deliberation of the applications brought before it in line with the applicable guidelines with information provided by the Authority of the correctional facilities, the nature of offence the inmate was convicted for, period of incarceration, age, health condition and the behavioural conduct of the inmate. The release order is to be complied with after completion of release administrative process by the correctional facilities. Signed Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN.Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice.5th November, 2024.

Read More

PRESS RELEASE: LASG HOLDS STAKEHOLDER’S MEETING TO ENHANCE COLLABORATION FOR EFFECTIVE JUSTICE DELIVERY.

Posted on

… advocates for changes in land laws to address coastal threats in the state. With the goal of improving collaborations amongst ministries and agencies in the State, the Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Justice, organized a two-day stakeholders’ meeting with MDAs, themed “Enhancing Collaboration for Effective Justice Delivery,” from Wednesday, 23rd to Thursday, 24th October, 2024, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. The meeting focused on addressing judicial challenges and promoting stronger cooperation among key institutions. The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, while officially declaring the event opened, emphasized the significance of the Ministry’s efforts in organizing the program, noting that the state government is dedicated to creating a more responsive, inclusive, and efficient justice system for the benefit of all Lagosians, regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity. He acknowledged the complexity of justice delivery, noting that the difference between African countries and other developed nations is the rule of law and its advancements in science and technology. Hamzat stated that the rule of law is increasingly becoming a subset of technology and science, as both are transforming many lives, whether we embrace it or not. The Deputy Governor expressed concern about delays in justice, citing the prolonged case of a BRT driver accused of rape and murder, which has remained unresolved for over a year. He called on participants to critically review Lagos’ judicial processes and seek lasting solutions to these inefficiencies. He also called for urgent reforms in land management laws to combat the growing threats posed by climate change, particularly in a coastal city like Lagos. He stated that Lagos, a rapidly growing coastal megacity, is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The combination of high population density, rapid urbanization, and being situated along the coast makes the city prone to flooding, land erosion, and subsidence. “The rising sea levels, along with the extreme weather patterns we are witnessing, place Lagos at significant risk of sinking in a few years if immediate action is not taken,” the Deputy Governor warned. He stressed that the existing land management system must be overhauled to mitigate these risks and ensure the future sustainability of the state. The Deputy Governor also highlighted that managing land effectively is a persistent challenge in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos State. “With a complex system of land ownership, traditional land rights, and bureaucratic processes, without proper regulation and reforms in land laws, we are not just risking environmental catastrophe but also exacerbating socioeconomic inequalities,” the Deputy Governor noted. He however, proposed that new land policies must take into account climate resilience and environmental sustainability. This includes better planning to prevent overdevelopment in flood-prone areas, stricter regulations on construction near the coastline, and enhanced public awareness of the environmental consequences of unregulated land use. Furthermore, the Deputy Governor called on all stakeholders, including environmental agencies, urban planners, and community leaders, to work together in addressing these issues. He called for immediate action to reform land laws in a way that prioritizes both environmental sustainability and the long-term security of the state’s coastal communities. Speaking earlier, the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, expressed his pleasure in hosting the event and underscored the importance of collaboration in the pursuit of justice. The AG stressed that the stakeholders meeting is a continuation of the discussions held earlier this year at the Y2024 Lagos Justice Summit, where recommendations were made to strengthen cooperation, transparency, and coordination among stakeholders. “The meeting will focus on several critical areas, starting with enhancing the co-ordination between law enforcement agencies and the Ministry of Justice” Pedro stated. He mentioned that one of the key areas of discussion is the growing number of cases involving the Lagos State Government that are currently pending in court. “As of July 2024, over 6,000 cases are tied to the government, spanning issues such as land disputes, physical planning, housing, road transportation, environment, chieftaincy matters, breach of contract, employment, and fundamental human rights. The financial exposure of these cases is estimated to be ₦114.5 billion”, He noted. He further stated that another session will focus on environmental and physical planning, with stakeholders from the Ministry of Environment, LASEPA, and other related agencies, discussing ways to improve service delivery in environmental management and urban development”. Proceeding to note that in the area of land administration, representatives from the Lands Bureau, NTDA, Office of the Surveyor General, and related agencies will rub minds to harmonize operations and address gaps in the enforcement of land-related laws. Pedro emphasized the need for stronger enforcement strategies while ensuring that agency actions align with existing laws and are people-friendly. Whilst drawing attention to issues related to chieftaincy matters and local government administration, the AG noted that there will be  discussions centered on the proliferation of chieftaincy titles and the involvement of traditional rulers in land transactions, as well as the increasing number of litigations surrounding these issues and finally, the future of local government administration in Lagos State will be explored, with a focus on improving efficiency and reducing conflicts. In reaffirming the State Government’s dedication to maintaining the rule of law, Pedro emphasized that delivering justice is not solely the responsibility of one institution; rather, it necessitates a collaborative effort that involves all legislative arms of government, law enforcement agencies, regulatory bodies, and the broader community. The opening ceremony concluded with a call for all stakeholders to engage meaningfully and contribute to building a more responsive, inclusive, and efficient justice system in Lagos State. The Ministry of Justice reaffirmed its commitment to supporting law enforcement agencies in the fight against corruption while ensuring that the rights of Lagosians are protected. Giving the vote of thanks, the Acting Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, MOJ, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, extended his appreciation to all participants, acknowledging their dedication to justice delivery and governance. In his remarks, Oyenuga  emphasized the importance of collaboration among various sectors in ensuring a more effective and transparent justice system.

Read More

PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS TO BEGIN COLLABORATIONS WITH STAKEHOLDERS  TO STRENGTHEN JUSTICE DELIVERY

Posted on

The Lagos State Government will begin collaborations with various key stakeholders to strengthen justice delivery in the State. Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN made this declaration at a Press Briefing on Monday to mark his one Year Anniversary in Office and to announce a high profile Strategic Meeting to strengthen inter-agency collaborations, improve the enforcement of laws and Administration Of Justice and strengthen justice delivery across Lagos State. The meeting, themed: “Enhancing Collaboration for Effective Justice Delivery” is scheduled for October 23rd and 24th, 2024, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Isaac John Street, GRA Ikeja, Lagos. According to the AG, the meeting is a key follow-up to the Lagos Justice Summit held in May 2024, where stakeholders identified the need for enhanced cooperation within the justice system. He asserted that the strategic gathering has been organized to harmonize operations of various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) in order to improve service delivery and reduce government liabilities, particularly in areas such as land administration, physical planning, and environmental management. “This meeting will serve as a platform for engaging stakeholders in an open dialogue aimed at advancing the justice delivery system in Lagos State” Pedro said. Pedro noted that over the past year, under the able leadership of Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Ministry of Justice has made significant strides in facilitating the enforcement of laws and enhancing Justice Administration “The Ministry’s focus has remained steadfast on ensuring justice is accessible to all residents, irrespective of socio-economic background. In line with the T.H.E.M.E.S PLUS agenda, numerous initiatives have been introduced, including the completion of the JIC Taylor Magistrate Court House and provision of official quarters for magistrates”. “Key improvements have been seen in legal services access, prosecution processes, and support for the vulnerable. The Lagos State Criminal Information System has been launched, capturing biometric data and tracking cases of all inmates in the state’s correctional centers. In addition, new bills on civil justice and land administration reforms are being forwarded to the Lagos State House of Assembly” He noted. He further highlighted other key innovations, including a Bill for the establishment of a Lis Pendens Registry, which will serve as a repository for information on land disputes in court. This registry aims to prevent unsuspecting purchasers from buying land involved in litigation, while also enhancing confidence in real estate investment within the state. Furthermore, Pedro mentioned a proposed Bill for the creation of a Customary Marriage and Dissolution Registry. This will allow residents of Lagos State to obtain official certificates for customary marriages and their dissolutions. The Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice further underscored the importance of ongoing dialogue and cooperation among all stakeholders to create a more efficient and equitable justice system. He highlighted the crucial roles of the media, community leaders, and government agencies in this effort, noting that media coverage is essential in fostering transparency and accountability. Speaking earlier, the Acting Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga in his  welcome address expressed his appreciation  while thanking all participants for their commitment to the States justice sector reforms Oyenuga highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue and urged stakeholders to take full advantage of this collaborative opportunity to address pressing challenges. “Your input will be vital in shaping a more efficient and equitable justice system for all residents of Lagos State,” he stated.

Read More
Scroll to top