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Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the release and commutation of sentences for 91 inmates as part of activities marking the 2025 United Nations Human Rights Day.
At a press briefing, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, said the annual December 10 observance reflects a global commitment to dignity, equality, and the rule of law. He described the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights as “the moral and legal compass for nations committed to justice and human dignity.”
Pedro highlighted Lagos State’s longstanding investment in human rights protection, noting the establishment of the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights in 1999 to empower citizens, improve access to justice, and curb abuses.
He shared key statistics from the Directorate’s activities in the past year:
- About 1,950 petitions handled
- 1,200 cases resolved through mediation
- Nearly 50 fundamental rights cases currently before Federal and State High Courts, involving issues such as unlawful arrests, police misconduct, property disputes, and child custody matters
Providing details of the governor’s approval, the Attorney-General said the releases will be carried out in phases:
- Immediate Release: 80 inmates who have served over 70% of their sentences
- Phased Releases: 11 inmates to be released between January and April 2026
- Commutation: All inmates on death row will have their sentences reduced to life imprisonment
Pedro urged residents to respect the rights of others and remain law-abiding, stressing that the protection of fundamental freedoms remains central to Lagos State’s human rights agenda.
