Lagos State Ministry of Justice

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS STATE GOVERNMENT COMMENDS ECOWAS COURT’S EXTERNAL SESSION INITIATIVE

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…A Milestone for Accessible Justice in West Africa The Lagos State Government on Thursday , proudly participated in the commencement of the External Court Sessions of the ECOWAS Community Court of Justice at the Osborne Foreshore High Court, Ikoyi, Lagos. Delivering his address at the opening ceremony, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, commended the Court’s initiative and efforts to decentralize the administration of justice and make legal proceedings more accessible and transparent to the ordinary citizen. Ably represented by the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, he emphasized that the adjudication of cases and administration of justice are the pillars of a stable and progressive society. Echoing the words of Hon. Justice Ricardo Cláudio Monteiro Gonçalves, “Justice hidden is justice denied”, He noted that these external sessions are not merely procedural, they are also educational, enlightening, and essential for empowering the public with the knowledge of their legal rights. The Attorney General described the external court sessions, a milestone and a vital move toward ensuring that every West African citizen is informed about their right to a fair hearing and access to justice, as well as how to effectively engage with the judicial system. The sessions will be seen as a platform for fostering stronger collaboration among West African nations and their legal institutions. Pedro emphasized that “the current administration is deeply committed to enhancing judicial systems and aligning them with international best practices.” “This initiative reaffirms our commitment to justice that transcends borders and serves all people, regardless of creed, status, or affiliation.” He however concluded with an appeal to the public and legal professionals in attendance to observe proceedings with decorum and to take full advantage of the insights offered through the sessions. Mr. Lawal Pedro SAN, extended gratitude to the State Government and all dignitaries, justices, and stakeholders whose support and participation have made this important judicial outreach possible. Attendees at the Opening Ceremony of the External Court Sessions includes the Chief Justice of the Federation, Hon. Justice Kekere Ẹkun; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba; Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary MoJ, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; Directors and Counsel in the Ministry of Justice, Representatives of the Judiciary (Nigeria and ECOWAS), NBA, Lagos Commissioner of Police,Facilitators, Foreign Dignitaries and Law Students.

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PRESS RELEASE-LAGOS AG WELCOMES ECOWAS COURT’S SENSITIZATION OUTREACH.

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… Reaffirms Lagos’ Commitment to Regional Justice and Human Rights. Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN on Monday, welcomed the Community Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to Lagos for its 3day sensitization outreach programme, at The Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The program ,aimed at increasing public awareness about the Court’s mandate, procedures, and role in promoting Justice and human rights across the West African sub-region is scheduled for May 5th -7th,2025 Delivering his remarks at the opening ceremony, the Attorney General expressed deep honour and a strong sense of duty in addressing participants, stating that Lagos State is proud to host and support such a significant engagement. Pedro described the initiative as both a privilege and a responsibility for the State, which remains committed to strengthening collaboration with ECOWAS institutions in the promotion of justice, the rule of law, and human rights across the region. He highlighted the historical development of the ECOWAS Court of Justice, noting that although ECOWAS was established by the 1975 Treaty of Lagos, the Court itself came into being with the Protocol of 1991, and was fully recognised as an institution of ECOWAS under the 1993 Revised Treaty. “The 2005 Supplementary Protocol, which expanded the Court’s jurisdiction to include human rights claims by individuals, was identified as a turning point for access to justice in West Africa” the AG said. The Attorney General also reaffirmed Lagos State’s alignment with the ideals of the ECOWAS Court and commended its pivotal role in interpreting regional laws, addressing employment disputes involving ECOWAS, and holding member states accountable for human rights violations. He further emphasized the importance of preserving the balance between regional and domestic justice systems by encouraging the exploration of local remedies before seeking regional adjudication, except where such remedies are ineffective or unduly delayed. “This principle not only safeguards the sovereignty of member states but also reinforces the ECOWAS Court as a complementary, rather than substitutive, judicial institution.” Pedro stated. He encouraged legal practitioners in Lagos and beyond to deepen their understanding of the Court’s procedures, admissibility criteria, and jurisprudence. Doing so, he said, would empower citizens to access justice through all available mechanisms; local, national, and sub-regional. The A.G spotlighted Lagos State’s ongoing reforms in access to justice, particularly through the Lagos Multi-Door Courthouse (LMDC), the first court-connected Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) centre in Nigeria. He noted that this innovation has significantly eased the burden on the courts and provided faster, more flexible, and less adversarial pathways to justice. He expressed optimism that the ECOWAS Court would explore the integration of ADR mechanisms within its own processes, citing Lagos’ model as an example of how innovation and responsiveness to citizens’ needs can transform judicial systems. “As we consider the future of regional justice in West Africa,” the Attorney General stated, “Lagos remains committed to advancing models that are people-centred and justice-focused.” Concluding his address, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, urged members of the NBA and the wider legal community to actively engage with the ECOWAS Court while taking advantage of the opportunities it presents. “True regional integration must go beyond politics and economics, and be anchored in shared values of justice, dignity, and the rule of law”, He reaffirmed Pedro commended the ECOWAS Court for bringing this meaningful engagement to Lagos, the commercial and legal hub of West Africa; and expressed hope that the programme would serve as a foundation for deeper collaboration and stronger regional institutions. Attendees at the Opening Ceremony includes the Chief Host; Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Chief Justice of the Federation, Hon. Justice Kekere Ẹkun; Chief Judge of Lagos State, Hon. Justice Kazeem Alogba; Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary MoJ, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga; Directors and Counsel in the Ministry of Justice, Representatives of the Judiciary (Nigeria and ECOWAS), NBA, Lagos Commissioner of Police,Facilitators foreign dignitaries and Law Students.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS COMMISSIONS NEW JUDICIARY FACILITIES TO STRENGTHEN ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE

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In a major stride toward enhancing the justice delivery system, the Lagos State Government, today, Friday 2nd of May, 2025, commissioned two critical judicial infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening the administration of justice and promoting rule of law in the State. These include the newly constructed Deputy Sheriff Warehouse in Majidun, Ikorodu, and the Magistrates’ Official Quarters in Ketu, Lagos. Speaking at the ceremony, the Governor of Lagos State; Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to judicial reform and institutional development; describing the projects as a “clear statement of intent,”. “These are not just buildings, but symbols of a government that understands the importance of structure in justice delivery,” Sanwo-Olu stated. He highlighted the warehouse as a critical step toward transparent and secure handling of court-ordered property executions and praised the Judiciary’s new initiative to protect perishable goods under appeal. On the Magistrates’ Quarters, the Governor noted that dignified housing is essential to supporting judicial independence and performance. “Magistrates must be able to focus on their vital role without the distraction of housing insecurity,” he said. Governor Sanwo-Olu also endorsed ongoing efforts to amend the Lagos State Tenancy Law, aimed at addressing rent-related challenges and fast-tracking tenancy dispute resolution. “These milestones further our vision of a Lagos where justice is accessible, efficient, and fair. We are building a judiciary that inspires confidence, protects rights, and serves as a cornerstone of democracy,” the Governor concluded. Speaking earlier, the Hon. Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), hailed the initiatives as a demonstration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to good governance, justice sector reform, and the THEMES+ agenda. The Deputy Sheriff Warehouse, a first of its kind in the State, provides a secure, organized, and professionally managed space to preserve properties under judicial execution; particularly those subject to appeal and stays of execution. “This development institutionalizes an orderly and transparent system that protects property rights while preserving the integrity of the court’s decisions,” Mr. Pedro stated. In an innovative move, the Lagos State Judiciary will now also facilitate the sale of perishable or time-sensitive goods under appeal with proceeds held in trust, ensuring value preservation while litigation is ongoing. Further reinforcing judicial welfare, the Governor commissioned 34 newly built three-bedroom flats as official residences for magistrates, marking the first of such initiatives in Lagos State. “This is a deliberate effort to ensure that our magistrates can carry out their demanding duties without the burden of accommodation instability,” the Attorney-General added. The event also provided an opportunity to announce the Lagos State Executive Council’s recent approval of amendments to the Tenancy Law, which aims to curb exploitative rent increase and fast-track tenancy dispute resolution within 3 to 6 months. A bill to that effect has been forwarded to the State House of Assembly for legislative action. These initiatives underscore the Sanwo-Olu administration’s commitment to justice, welfare, and inclusive development; concluding that: “Every infrastructure project is ultimately about people, ensuring that government works for everyone, from the most powerful to the most vulnerable.” Also in attendance includes The Deputy Governor of Lagos State,Dr Obafemi Hamzat, Chief Judge of Lagos State,Hon.Justice kazeem Alogba, Lagos High Court Judges, Magistrates, rep of the NBA, and critical stakeholders in the justice sector graced the ceremony.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS APPOINTS SOLICITOR GENERAL AND PERMANENT SECRETARY

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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.

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PRESS RELEASE: PREROGATIVE OF MERCY

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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.

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PRESS RELEASE: LAGOS STATE MINISTRY OF JUSTICE HOLDS JUSTICE REFORM SUMMIT ON THE 27TH & 28TH MAY, 2024

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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice announces a Justice Reform Summit scheduled to hold on the 27th and 28th of May 2024 at the Marriott Hotel, GRA Ikeja, Lagos with the Governor of Lagos State Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu as the Chief Host, The Chief Justice of Nigeria Hon Justice Olukayode Ariwoola GCON as the Chairman and The Attorney General ofthe Federation and Minister for Justice Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN as Special Guest of Honour. Theme – Enhancing The Administration Of Justice For Economic Growth, Investment Protection And Security In Lagos State. Lagos State Government for its various landmark and innovative achievements over the years became a pathfinder for Justice reform in Nigeria. However, being the economic nerve centre of Nigeria, there are real and new challenges to address, hence the summit to explore diverse perspective towards effective and efficient administration of justice for economic growth, security, governance and social protection in Lagos State and by extension the whole of Nigeria. This is towards implementing the THEMES Plus Agenda of the Governor Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwolu-Olu. As a prelude to the Summit there will be a press conference by the Lagos state Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice Mr.Lawal Pedro, SAN. FCIArb where highlights of the Summit will be presented. In order to gather insights from a wide spectrum of Nigerians, the Ministry has created an avenue for stakeholders and members of the public to express their views, observations and recommendations for the reform. Therefore, the stakeholders and members of the public can send their contributions to the following social media platforms: lagosjusticesummit2024@gmail.com WhatsAppNo: 07032276146 Facebook- @Lagosmoj Twitter- @Lagosmoj Instagram- @Lagosmoj Signed SignedMRS TITILAYO SHITTA-BEY JEJESOLICITOR GENERAL AND PERMANENT SECRETARY29/4/24

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Prerogative Of Mercy: Sanwo-Olu Approves Release Of 246 Inmates.

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……And Commuttal Of 39 Death Row Inmates To Life Imprisonment. Governor Babajide Sanwo-olu on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy has approved the release of 246 inmates from various correctional facilities across the State and the commuttal of 39 inmates on death row to life imprisonment. The Governor signed the release and commuttal orders on the 20th of December, 2023 in cognizance of the New Year Celebrations. The exercise is in pursuant to the provisions of Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria (amended). The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy in reaching its recommendations exercised due diligence in its deliberation of the applications in line with the applicable guidelines. The Council took note of the information provided by the correctional authorities, the nature of offence, period of incarceration, age, health and behavioral conduct of the inmates. The approval for the release of the inmates is in line with the commitment of Mr. Governor to decongest correctional facilities in Lagos State as part of the Justice Sector Reforms

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PRESS RELEASE: PREROGATIVE OF MERCY: SANWO-OLU APPROVES RELEASE OF 49 INMATES IN COMMEMORATION OF HIS SECOND TERM IN OFFICE

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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy has approved the release of 49 inmates from various correctional facilities across the State. The Governor signed the Release Order on the 26th of May, 2023 in cognizance of his Inauguration for the second term in office as Governor of Lagos State. The exercise is in pursuant to the provisions of Section 212 (1) (2) of the 1999 Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria (As amended). The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy in reaching its recommendations exercised due diligence in its deliberation of the applications in line with the applicable guidelines, information provided by the correctional authorities, the nature of offence, period of incarceration, age, health and also the behavioral conduct of the inmates. 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.

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Prerogative of Mercy: Sanwo-Olu Approves Release Of 104 Inmates

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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, has approved the release of 104 inmates from various correctional facilities across the State. The Governor signed the release order on the 28th of December 2022 in cognisance of the Spirit of the Season and the New Year Festive Celebration. The exercise is pursuant to the provisions of Section 212 (1)&(2) of the 1999 Constitution of The Federal Republic of Nigeria ( as amended). The Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy in reaching its recommendations exercised due diligence in its deliberation of the applications in line with the applicable guidelines. The Council took note of the information provided by the correctional authorities, the nature of the offence, period of incarceration, age, health and behavioural conduct of the inmates. The approval for the release of the inmates is in line with the commitment of Mr. Governor to decongest correctional facilities in Lagos State as part of the Justice Sector Reforms. Signed Mr. Moyosore Onigbanjo SAN Lagos State Attorney General/Commissioner for Justice 30th of December, 2022

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