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