…Announces Sanwo-Olu’s approval of two coaster buses for logistics
The Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro, SAN, visited the Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre on Thursday for an extensive tour of the facility. His visit aimed to assess conditions, interact with both inmates and correctional officers, and reinforce the government’s commitment to justice sector reforms.
This engagement underscores the Lagos State Government’s dedication to improving the justice system and ensuring the welfare of those in correctional facilities.
During the tour, the Attorney-General engaged directly with inmates, attentively listening to their concerns and reassuring them of the government’s determination to strengthen the criminal justice system. He acknowledged the relatively orderly environment within the facility and commended the rehabilitative initiatives designed to help inmates reintegrate into society upon release.
Mr Pedro further reiterated that the government is actively exploring measures to alleviate overcrowding in correctional facilities. This includes maximising initiatives such as plea bargaining, restorative justice, community service, and the prerogative of mercy—allowing the Governor to grant pardons and release deserving convicts.
He stressed that justice must strike a fair balance between the rights of victims, the accused, and society at large.
As part of ongoing efforts to improve judicial processes, Mr Pedro announced that, despite correctional facilities being under federal government control, the Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the provision of two Coaster buses. These vehicles will help facilitate the timely transportation of inmates to and from court, ensuring smoother judicial proceedings.
The Controller of Corrections, Mr G.O. Damilola, expressed gratitude for the visit and welcomed the donation, noting that improved transport facilities would significantly reduce logistical challenges and enhance inmates’ access to justice.
Additionally, Mr Pedro encouraged inmates to take full advantage of educational and rehabilitation programmes available to them, emphasising that such initiatives could equip them with skills for a fresh start after their release.
He urged inmates to view their time in correctional facilities as an opportunity for personal growth and transformation.
The Attorney-General commended the government’s commitment to justice sector reforms and underlined the administration’s dedication to upholding the rights and welfare of all individuals, including those serving custodial sentences.
This visit reaffirmed the state government’s determination to promote reforms that improve rehabilitation and reintegration opportunities for inmates, ensuring that they have a better chance of reintegrating into society as responsible citizens.
