Lagos Justice Ministry secures community service sentence for bakery workers

The Lagos State Ministry of Justice, through its Restorative Justice Centre (RJC) in collaboration with the Non-Custodial/Community Service Centre, has secured a community service sentence for two bakery workers accused of stealing from their employer.

The workers were alleged to have stolen five loaves of bread, with their employer insisting on prosecution in court.

However, under the Ministry’s sifting process at the Magistrate Courts, a District Prosecutor reviewed the case and referred both parties to the Restorative Justice Centre instead of filing charges.

Following mediation at the Centre, both sides reached an agreement that the offenders would serve two weeks of community service, which commenced immediately.

The Ministry said the resolution reflects its proactive approach to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and accountability, while also demonstrating the effectiveness of restorative justice in handling minor offences and reducing pressure on correctional facilities.