Lagos State Government has sanctioned the release and commutation of sentences for 91 inmates, reinforcing its commitment to justice, fundamental freedoms, and access to legal remedies.
Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro, SAN, said the annual December 10 event shows the global pledge to uphold human dignity, equality, and the rule of law.
He described the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights as “the moral and legal compass guiding nations committed to justice and human dignity.”
Mr Pedro highlighted that the state established the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights in 1999, following years of military rule, as “a deliberate democratic initiative to empower citizens, provide access to justice, and prevent recurrence of past abuses.”
Over the past year, the directorate handled approximately 1,950 petitions, successfully resolving 1,200 through mediation, with the remaining cases either under investigation or pending in court.
He added that Lagos currently manages nearly 50 fundamental rights cases in both Federal and State High Courts, covering issues such as unlawful detention, police misconduct, property disputes, and child custody matters.
Regarding the phased release of inmates, Mr. Pedro stated: “The Governor has approved the release of 80 inmates who have served over 70 percent of their sentences. Additionally, six inmates will be released by January 31, 2026; three by February 28; one by March 31; and others by April 30, bringing the total to 91.”
He also confirmed that all affected death row inmates have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment.
The Attorney-General called on Lagos residents to respect the rights of others and abide by the law, emphasising that safeguarding fundamental freedoms remains central to the state’s human rights agenda.
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