By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State has approved the release of 91 inmates as part of the State Government’s commitment to the rule of law and the protection of fundamental human rights, In commemoration of the 2025 World Human Rights Day.
The Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, made this announcement during a press briefing on Wednesday, December 10, emphasising the importance of global collaboration in advancing the promotion and protection of human rights.
In his address, the Attorney-General noted that every December 10, the global community reflects on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948) – a foundational document that continues to guide democratic societies in entrenching the rule of law.
He explained that this year’s theme, “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials,” serves as a timely reminder that fundamental rights are not privileges reserved for a few, but essential entitlements necessary for the safety, dignity, and well-being of every individual.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Mr. Pedro recalled the nation’s transition from prolonged military rule in 1999 – a period marked by suspended constitutional rights, restricted access to justice, arbitrary arrests, detentions without trial, suppression of free speech, and weakened democratic institutions. He added that this transition led to the establishment of the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights (DCR) by the Lagos State Government.
According to the Commissioner, the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights has become a key pillar of the Lagos State justice system and now handles a broad range of matters – including tenancy disputes, children’s rights, unlawful detention, family issues, workplace grievances, debtor-creditor cases, and the protection of persons living with HIV – resolving most through mediation.
“In the past year, the Directorate received about 1,950 petitions, mediated 1,200 cases, and is currently handling 50 fundamental rights suits involving police misconduct, unlawful detention, property disputes, and parental access,” he added.
In furtherance of the State Government’s amnesty initiative to mark the 2025 Human Rights Day, the Commissioner announced that Governor Sanwo-Olu, acting on the recommendation of the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, has exercised his power of clemency for the release of convicts who have served more than 75% of their sentences in correctional facilities.
He said that a total of 91 inmates will benefit from the gesture: 80 are to be released immediately, six by January 31, 2026, three by February 28, 2026, one by March 31, 2026, and one by April 30, 2026. He added that two convicts on death row have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment.
Mr. Pedro expressed appreciation to the Governor for his unwavering support for the justice system, the rule of law, and the protection of human rights in Lagos State. He also urged residents to obey laws and regulations and to collaborate with the Government in building a just, peaceful, and inclusive society.
