Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the release of 43 inmates from correctional facilities across the state in a move aimed at reducing overcrowding and improving the criminal justice system.
The decision followed recommendations by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, which carefully reviewed each case in accordance with established legal procedures.
This latest release builds on previous efforts by the state government, with 91 inmates granted freedom in December 2025 as part of a sustained drive to ease congestion in custodial centres.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, explained that the inmates were freed under the governor’s constitutional powers of prerogative of mercy, as outlined in Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
He noted that the initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fairness, justice, and the rule of law, adding that decongesting correctional centres also helps to speed up judicial processes.
Pedro further highlighted steps taken by the state to support the correctional system, including the provision of two coaster buses to the Nigeria Correctional Service to facilitate timely movement of inmates to and from courts.
He added that renovation and upgrade projects are ongoing within correctional facilities to improve infrastructure and the welfare of inmates.
The attorney-general also called on the Federal Government to consider handing over at least one correctional facility in Lagos—particularly one housing offenders convicted under state laws—to the state government. According to him, such a move would improve oversight, funding, transparency, and help tackle persistent overcrowding.
Pedro reaffirmed that Lagos remains committed to comprehensive justice reforms that balance public safety, victims’ rights, offender rehabilitation, and the protection of fundamental human rights.
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