In observance of the 2025 United Nations Human Rights Day, the Lagos State Government has approved the release and sentence computation for 91 convicts, highlighting its ongoing commitment to justice and the protection of fundamental human rights.
The clemency, exercised under the state’s power of pardon, primarily benefits inmates who have served over 70 per cent of their sentences in correctional facilities. Of the 91 beneficiaries, 80 convicts are slated for immediate release.
Lawal Pedro, SAN, the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, announced the decision during a press conference organised by the Ministry of Justice and the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights.
He emphasised that the move aligns with the government’s mandate to uphold human dignity and ensure fairness within the criminal justice system.
Pedro highlighted the broader role of the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights, noting that since its establishment, it has resolved over 1,200 petitions in the past year alone.
“The Directorate was created to empower citizens with knowledge of their rights, provide accessible mechanisms for redress, and prevent abuses reminiscent of Nigeria’s military past,” he explained.
The Attorney General elaborated that the Directorate now handles approximately 50 fundamental rights cases in the Federal and State High Courts, addressing issues ranging from unlawful detention and police misconduct to property rights violations and denial of parental access.
He also underscored the Directorate’s Bureau of Public Defender, which provides free legal representation to indigent residents, survivors of domestic violence, and individuals unlawfully detained.
“This Human Rights Day, the state reaffirms its commitment to protecting the rights of every resident, ensuring equal access to justice, and fostering a society grounded in accountability and fairness,” Pedro said.
The release of the convicts not only marked a celebration of human rights but also served as a reminder of the state’s dedication to justice and rehabilitation.
Lagos residents were urged to continue respecting the rights of others while the justice sector maintains its focus on fairness, equality, and the rule of law.
