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Lagos State Ministry of Justice

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

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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.

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LAGOS MOJ HOSTS CANADIAN DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE ON KNOWLEDGE-SHARING COLLABORATION.

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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice on Monday, 2nd of February, 2026, hosted a delegation from the Department of Justice, Canada, led by Co-Director of Canada-Nigeria Justice Cooperation Project, Genevieve Westrope; on an official visit aimed at deepening understanding of the Ministry’s mandate, institutional framework, and key initiatives within the criminal justice system. The visit formed part of an international knowledge-sharing engagement focused on criminal offences and prosecution processes, with particular emphasis on gender-based violence, child abuse, and human trafficking. In his address, the Lagos Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, thanked the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his unwavering support of the justice sector and for providing the enabling environment required for institutional growth, reform, and effective prosecution of criminal offences. He spoke extensively on the Ministry’s role in the prosecution of criminal matters, highlighting its sustained efforts in combating gender-based violence, protecting children from abuse, and addressing human trafficking through coordinated legal and institutional responses. Pedro emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration, capacity building, and victim-centred approaches in achieving justice outcomes that are fair, timely, and impactful. He also acknowledged the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs for its critical role in facilitating the visit, noting that its partnership and advocacy were central to the Department of Justice, Canada’s engagement with Lagos State. According to him, such collaboration underscores the value of collective action in addressing crimes that disproportionately affect women, children and the vulnerable. Welcoming the delegation earlier, the Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, gave an overview of the Ministry’s structure, core responsibilities, and ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening justice delivery in Lagos State. Oyenuga expressed delight at the visit, describing it as an important opportunity to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build mutual understanding between both jurisdictions. The Permanent Secretary noted that the Ministry remains committed to continuous improvement, innovation, and collaboration in the administration of justice. Co-Director of Canada-Nigeria Justice Cooperation Project, Genevieve Westrope; expressed appreciation for the warm reception, noting that prior to the visit, the delegation had been informed in Abuja that Lagos State is a leading authority in the justice sector and a jurisdiction that clearly understands and effectively executes its justice mandate. She commended the Ministry’s commitment to justice sector reform, inter-agency collaboration, and the protection of vulnerable groups, and acknowledged the openness and professionalism demonstrated throughout the engagement. The interactive session allowed for robust discussions on prosecutorial practices, legal safeguards, policy frameworks, and enforcement challenges, while also exploring opportunities for future cooperation and learning. The event, held at Zen Garden, Isaac John, Lagos, underscored the Lagos State Ministry of Justice’s commitment to institutional learning, strategic partnerships, and the strengthening of the criminal justice system, while reaffirming its dedication to upholding the rule of law, protecting human rights, and ensuring justice for all residents of Lagos State.

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PRESS RELEASE – MOJ REWARDS OUTSTANDING OFFICERS, CELEBRATES RETIREES

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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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PEDRO INAUGURATES 114 LOCAL GOVERNMENT FOCAL PERSONS, LNSC DESK OFFICERS AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING

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Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, today inaugurated 114 Local Government Focal Persons and Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC) Anti-Human Trafficking Desk Officers for the Lagos State Task Force Against Human Trafficking, reinforcing the State’s commitment to combating human trafficking at the grassroots. The inauguration, held at the DMO Office, Alausa, Ikeja is part of the strategic efforts of the Lagos State Government under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu to strengthen prevention, early detection, and response mechanisms at the Local Government level. Mr. Pedro explained that Heads of Legal Units in all the 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas have been designated as Local Government Focal Persons for the Task Force, while Anti-Human Trafficking Officers of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps have been appointed as Desk Officers in their respective jurisdictions. According to the Attorney-General, the framework promotes coordination, clarity of roles, and accountability by integrating legal oversight with operational capacity and community intelligence at the local level. He charged the appointees to be vigilant, proactive, and responsive, stressing that the appointments carry responsibility rather than titles. He emphasised early identification of trafficking risks, prompt reporting of suspected cases, effective referrals in line with approved procedures, and sustained engagement with community leaders and grassroots institutions. Mr. Pedro assured the officers of the State Government’s continued support through policy direction, coordination, and capacity building. Speaking earlier,the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Justice, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga, represented by the Director, Directorate for Citizens Rights, Mr. Johnson Ogunsanya, stated that the inauguration was anchored in the 2025 Workplan of the Lagos State Task Force Against Human Trafficking and reflected the State’s deliberate policy direction to combat human trafficking in a coordinated and community-responsive manner. Also speaking, the Lagos Zonal Commander of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP),represented by Mrs Hàjarat Tunde -Osho, commended Lagos State for strengthening its grassroots response, describing the Lagos State Task Force Against Human Trafficking as a critical pillar in the national response to trafficking in persons. She noted that the Task Force model has been replicated in 24 states of the Federation. She recalled that the inauguration fulfilled a commitment made by the Attorney-General and Chairman of the Task Force, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, in December 2023, and praised the State Government for matching policy intent with concrete action. In his briefing, the Task Force Coordinator, Mr. Olamide Ibrahim, explained that the operational framework was designed to strengthen grassroots collaboration without creating parallel systems or disrupting existing command structures. ‎He clarified that while Local Government Focal Persons serve as coordination points at the local level, LNSC Desk Officers would continue to operate strictly within the established command structure of the Neighbourhood Safety Corps. The event concluded with the formal undertaking of commitment by the 114 appointees, followed by their official inauguration by the Attorney-General.

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LAGOS CELEBRATES WORLD HUMAN RIGHTS DAY

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…Governor Approves Release of 91 Inmates‎‎In commemoration of the 2025 World Human Rights Day,the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has approved the release of 91 inmates as part of the State Government’s commitment to the rule of law and the protection of fundamental human rights.‎‎The Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, made this announcement during a press briefing on Wednesday, December 10, emphasizing the importance of global collaboration in advancing the promotion and protection of human rights.‎‎In his address, the Attorney-General noted that every December 10, the global community reflects on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)—a foundational document that continues to guide democratic societies in entrenching the rule of law.‎‎He explained that this year’s theme, “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials,” serves as a timely reminder that fundamental rights are not privileges reserved for a few, but essential entitlements necessary for the safety, dignity, and well-being of every individual.‎‎Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Mr. Pedro recalled the nation’s transition from prolonged military rule in 1999—a period marked by suspended constitutional rights, restricted access to justice, arbitrary arrests, detentions without trial, suppression of free speech, and weakened democratic institutions. He added that this transition led to the establishment of the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights (DCR) by the Lagos State Government.‎‎According to the Commissioner, the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights has become a key pillar of the Lagos State justice system and now handles a broad range of matters—including tenancy disputes, children’s rights, unlawful detention, family issues, workplace grievances, debtor–creditor cases, and the protection of persons living with HIV—resolving most through mediation.‎‎“In the past year, the Directorate received about 1,950 petitions, mediated 1,200 cases, and is currently handling 50 fundamental rights suits involving police misconduct, unlawful detention, property disputes, and parental access,” he added.‎‎In furtherance of the State Government’s amnesty initiative to mark the 2025 Human Rights Day, the Commissioner announced that Governor Sanwo-Olu, acting on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, has exercised his power of clemency for the release of convicts who have served more than 75% of their sentences in correctional facilities.‎A total of 91 inmates will benefit from the gesture: 80 are to be released immediately,6 by January 31, 2026,3 by February 28, 2026,1 by March 31, 2026, and 1 by April 30, 2026.‎‎He added that two convicts on death row have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment.‎‎Mr. Pedro expressed appreciation to the Governor for his unwavering support for the justice system, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights in Lagos State. He also urged residents to obey laws and regulations and to collaborate with the Government in building a just, peaceful, and inclusive society.

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LAGOS COMMEMORATES INTERNATIONAL RESTORATIVE JUSTICE WEEK

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…Reaffirms Commitment to Humane and Community-Centred Justice The Lagos State Ministry of Justice has joined the global community to commemorate the 2025 International Restorative Justice Week, which commenced on Monday, 24th November 2025. The Honourable Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, reaffirmed the State Government’s unwavering commitment to strengthening restorative justice as a core pillar of the State’s criminal justice architecture. Speaking at a press briefing held on Thursday,, the Attorney-General noted that this year’s international theme, “Restorative Justice as Human Rights,” aligns strongly with the THEMES+ agenda of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, particularly under Security and Governance. He stated that Lagos State continues to champion people-centred justice and community-based peacebuilding—positioning restorative justice not merely as an alternative, but as an essential tool for promoting access to justice, healing, accountability, and human dignity. Pedro highlighted the progress of the Lagos State Restorative Justice Centre, established in 2022 as the first structured restorative justice framework in Nigeria. He reported that the Centre has received 360 referrals to date, with over 80 percent successfully resolved, resulting in fewer custodial remands, reduced court pressure, quicker justice delivery, and improved community harmony. According to him, the Centre’s interventions include victim–offender mediations, restitution agreements, community service sentencing as a non-custodial measure, and its first multi-party conferencing involving government agencies and a private business entity. The Attorney-General added that most referrals were received from the Magistrate Courts, Directorate of Public Prosecutions, Bureau of Public Defender, and private legal practitioners. However, he noted the relatively low referral rate from the Police, stressing the need for deeper engagement. He assured that the Ministry will strengthen collaboration with law enforcement to enhance the programme’s reach and impact. Pedro further stated that Lagos State’s achievements have positioned it as a national leader in criminal justice reform, with the Lagos model being adopted across states including Adamawa, Anambra, Edo, Kano, Abia, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory. He expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu for his continuous support, and to the Honourable Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Olanrewaju Alogba, for institutional backing. He also commended the EU-funded RoLAC Programme, International IDEA, the Prison Fellowship of Nigeria, the Lagos Multi-Door Courthouse, justice sector stakeholders, and community partners for sustaining the initiative. “As we commemorate International Restorative Justice Week 2025, we make it clear that restorative justice is no longer an experiment in Lagos State. It is now a permanent and indispensable feature of our criminal justice system,” he said. He further called on the Police, justice institutions, community leaders, and the public to continue partnering with the Ministry to strengthen restorative justice and promote peaceful, community-driven resolutions across the State. In her remarks, the RoLAC Coordinator, Mrs. Ajibola Ijimakinwa, emphasised the need to expand public awareness and deepen institutional adoption of restorative justice across Lagos State. She noted that referral numbers remain low compared to the volume of minor offences entering the system, describing this as an area requiring urgent collaboration. “We look forward to increased referrals from Magistrate Courts and even the Police,” she said. “Before now, justice was all about punishment and incarceration. Now we are saying the victim and the offender can come together, discuss what happened and its impact, and reach an agreement that ensures accountability while addressing the victim’s needs.” Speaking earlier, the Solicitor-General, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga—represented by the Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins noted that the annual observance provides an important platform for Lagos State to reaffirm its leadership in justice sector reform, strengthen public awareness, and highlight progress since the establishment of the Restorative Justice Centre in 2022. Oyenuga reiterated that restorative justice remains central to the Ministry of Justice’s commitments under the THEMES+ Agenda, particularly in advancing people-centred justice, reducing court burdens, supporting victims, and promoting peaceful conflict resolution across communities. He expressed appreciation to the Attorney-General for his strategic leadership and commended justice sector stakeholders, international partners, and community organisations for their collaboration in promoting humane and effective justice solutions. The Director of the Restorative Justice Centre, Ms. Adeshola Adekunle-Bello, also expressed gratitude to the Attorney-General and the Solicitor-General for their sustained leadership in advancing restorative justice in Lagos State. She noted that their support has enabled the Centre to evolve into a functional, impactful, and nationally recognised model for community-centred justice. She acknowledged the invaluable collaboration of key justice sector institutions—including the Judiciary, Directorate of Public Prosecutions, Bureau of Public Defender, Community Service Unit, District Prosecutors and the Police—as well as partners such as the EU-funded RoLAC Programme, International IDEA, the Prison Fellowship of Nigeria, and the Lagos Multi-Door Courthouse. She added that these partnerships have been crucial in strengthening restorative interventions and expanding access across the State. Adekunle-Bello extended appreciation to community leaders, civil society organisations, and the press for their continued support, and reaffirmed the Centre’s commitment to deepening restorative practices, promoting peaceful conflict resolution, and sustaining Lagos State’s leadership in criminal justice reform.

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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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LAGOS HOSTS CLOSING DINNER TO CONCLUDE AFRICA COLLOQUIUM AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING

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The two-day Africa Colloquium Against Human Trafficking, which began on Thursday, October 23, 2025, was formally concluded with a closing dinner hosted by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice The event took place on Friday evening at the Radisson Blu Hotel,GRA, Ikeja. In his closing remarks, Honourable Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, expressed profound gratitude to all delegates and partners for their participation and valuable contributions. He described the colloquium as a significant milestone in strengthening Africa’s unified response to human trafficking and exploitation. Pedro reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to enhancing regional collaboration, supporting survivors, and enforcing stronger legal measures to combat trafficking and ritual crimes. He emphasized that Lagos would continue to spearhead initiatives promoting justice, dignity, and protection for all. Professor Cameron McCollum, Director of the Sudreau Global Justice Institute at Pepperdine University, commended participants for their courage in confronting such a difficult and often taboo subject. He noted that the discussions over the past two days had “shed light on a darkness long left unspoken,” and stressed that collective determination is essential for lasting change. McCollum also praised the Lagos State Government for its hospitality and leadership, describing the coordination of the Attorney General as instrumental to the colloquium’s success. He expressed confidence that the colloquium’s impact would extend beyond Nigeria, inspiring a sustained continental effort against human trafficking and ritual abuse. The event provided a powerful platform for delegates to reflect on the key outcomes of the colloquium and reaffirm their shared commitment to combating human trafficking and ritual abuse across Africa.

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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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SANWO-OLU LEADS AFRICAN LEADERS TO UNITE AGAINST HUMAN TRAFFICKING, RITUAL ABUSE, AND SACRIFICE

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The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has called on African leaders to form a united front against human trafficking, ritual abuse, and human sacrifice, as he declared open the Inaugural 2025 Africa Colloquium Against Human Trafficking, currently holding at the Radisson Blu Hotel on Thursday 23rd to Friday 24th October, 2025. Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Governor ably represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, described the colloquium as a defining moment for Africa’s collective conscience, urging governments and communities to work together to dismantle the networks enabling human trafficking and ritual exploitation. “This evil knows no boundaries. We must confront and defeat the dangerous myths that fuel ritual abuse—myths that wrongly link power or success to the taking of human life. Our people are not for sale, our children are not sacrifices, and our future will never be built on fear or blood ,” he said. Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the State’s commitment through the Lagos State Task Force Against Human Trafficking, which continues to strengthen prosecution systems, rehabilitate survivors, and raise public awareness in collaboration with NAPTIP and international partners. Representing the Hon. Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, represented by Ezine Nwokoro, commended the organisers for addressing ritual trafficking, describing it as a “deeply disturbing layer” to human exploitation. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to legislative reforms, stronger partnerships with NAPTIP, and enhanced international cooperation to prevent and prosecute trafficking in persons. Delivering a keynote speech earlier, Lagos Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, described the colloquium as a “continental call to conscience,” noting that ritual killings and trafficking have become organised, commercialized, and transnational crimes. “Africa must rise; not in rhetoric but in responsibility,From prevention to prosecution, we must transform policies into laws and laws into action for the protection and rehabilitation of victims” He said. He further revealed that between 2022 and 2024, over 4,700 victims of trafficking were rescued and supported in Lagos, while the State enacted the Organ Harvesting Prohibition Law (2024) to tackle the illegal trade in human organs for ritual and exploitative purposes. The AG appreciated Pepperdine University and the Sudreau Global Justice Institute for their partnership since 2022, noting that Africa “does not lack capacity—only courage, coordination, and conviction.” Pedro urged stakeholders to make the colloquium a turning point in ending child killings, exploitation, and ritual abuse, affirming Lagos State’s commitment to lead legal reform and collaboration across Africa in the fight against human trafficking. Delivering her remarks, Director-General of NAPTIP, Binta L. Adamu Bello, OON, ably represented by the Director, Research and Program Development, Mr. Josiah Emerole emphasized the deep-rooted connection between ritual practices and human trafficking across Africa, warning that traffickers increasingly exploit cultural fears and spiritual manipulation to control victims. “These oaths are enforced not with guns or chains, but with deep-seated cultural fears. Ritual abuse has not disappeared; it has only evolved, crossing borders and complicating trafficking investigations”, She said. Binta urged participants to break the culture of silence, strengthen victim support systems, and promote regional and global collaboration, adding that “the lives of our children, women, and men are too precious to be sacrificed at the altar of greed, culture, or superstition”. Lagos Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary,Mr Hameed Oyenuga on his part welcomed all delegates while clamouring for better framework that will protect the most vulnerable -children, women and young people from exploitation . The colloquium, themed “A United Front Against Ritual Abuse and Sacrifice,” was convened by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice in collaboration with the Sudreau Global Justice Institute of Pepperdine University (USA) and supported by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). The two-day colloquium will feature breakout sessions and discussions on the Foundation and identification of ritual abuse and Sacrifice,Victims and survivors, Investigation and Prosecution, the role of faith leaders and Community and probable solutions in curbing the menace of Rituals and human trafficking in Africa.. Dignitaries present include,Honorable Speaker, LAHA, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, ably represented by Hon. Bonu Solomon; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba; Director, Sudreau Global Justice Institute, Pepperdine University,USA, Prof Camerjon McCollum; Judges, Magistrates, Permanent Secretaries; Attorneys Generals, ,Rep of Pepperdine University,NAPTIP,DSVA,NCS,NBA,LNSC,NIS,Directors staff of the Lagos Ministry of Justice.

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