Lagos State governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has released 43 inmates from correctional centres to decongest facilities and advance justice sector reforms.
Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, said the inmates were recommended by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
He said the governor acted under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution as amended, empowering him to grant prerogative of mercy.
According to him, 91 inmates were similarly released in December 2025, reinforcing the state’s commitment to justice, fairness and improved correctional administration.
“The intervention aims to tackle overcrowding, ensure humane conditions and improve inmates’ movement to court for speedy trials,” Pedro said.
He added that the state procured two coaster buses for the Nigeria Correctional Service to enhance secure and timely transportation of inmates to courts
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“This measure is designed to reduce delays in criminal trials and promote efficiency within the justice system,” he said.
Pedro said renovation and upgrading of selected correctional facilities had also commenced to strengthen custodial infrastructure.
He noted that, with custodial services on the Concurrent Legislative List, the Federal Government could transfer control of at least one Lagos facility to the state.
“Such a move will address weak oversight, inadequate funding, lack of transparency and overcrowding in federal-controlled facilities.
“The government remains committed to reforms, balancing victims’ rights, public safety, offenders’ rehabilitation and human rights protection.
“Lagos remains resolute in implementing effective justice reforms that ensure fairness and promote a safer society,” he said.
The Lagos State Government on Wednesday welcomed 16-year-old autistic cyclist, Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke, on arrival in Lagos during his endurance cycling journey. He arrived from Enugu State accompanied by parents, Kanyeyachukwu Autism Foundation members, cycling officials, and a medical support team.
The team was received by Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, completing the Enugu-Anambra-Lagos endurance route.
“This visit is both inspiring and symbolic,” Ogunlende said praising the cyclist’s courage and determination. He also commended Kanyeyachukwu’s resilience and applauded his parents’ dedication, describing the journey as a powerful statement on inclusion and disability awareness.
Kanyeyachukwu expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for the warm reception, describing it as compassionate and highly commendable.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu will formally receive the team at the State House on Thursday.
Weeks of activities mark World Autism Awareness Day, observed globally on April 2 under the United Nations framework.
It promotes acceptance, inclusion and appreciation of autistic individuals while highlighting their social, educational and economic contributions worldwide.
NAN
