Sanwo-Olu frees 43 inmates, seeks decongestion of Lagos custodial centres

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the release of 43 inmates from correctional centres across Lagos State, intensifying efforts to decongest custodial facilities and reform the criminal justice system

The development was disclosed in a statement by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, who said the decision was part of a sustained intervention to address overcrowding and improve correctional infrastructure.

“It would be recalled that a few months ago, in December 2025, ninety-one inmates were also released from the custodial centres,” Pedro stated.

He explained that the latest release was carried out under the governor’s constitutional powers.

“The decision to release inmates who were yet to complete their terms was taken pursuant to the power of prerogative of mercy, conferred on the Governor under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended),” he said.

Pedro added that the beneficiaries were recommended by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy in line with laid-down procedures.

“The released inmates were duly recommended by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy in accordance with established legal and administrative guidelines,” he said.

He noted that the exercise reflects the state government’s commitment to justice sector reforms.

“This exercise reflects the State Government’s unwavering commitment to upholding justice, fairness and the rule of law, alongside improving conditions within correctional centres by proactively addressing the challenges of overcrowding,” he stated.

The Attorney-General further linked the initiative to ongoing efforts to ensure speedy trials.

It is also aimed at easing the mobility of inmates to and from courts for speedy trial,” he added

Highlighting complementary measures, Pedro disclosed that the government had provided logistical support to correctional authorities.

“In furtherance of this commitment, the Lagos State Government had, in the preceding year, procured and delivered two coaster buses to the Correctional Service to facilitate the timely and secure transportation of inmates to courts,” he said.

“This intervention is designed to enhance the efficiency of criminal trials and reduce delays associated with inmate logistics.”

He also revealed ongoing improvements to custodial infrastructure.

“In addition, the Government has embarked on the renovation and upgrade of some of the buildings in the correctional centres across the State, thereby strengthening custodial infrastructure,” Pedro noted.

On broader reforms, the commissioner called for federal collaboration in addressing systemic challenges.

“In light of the current constitutional provisions placing custodial and correctional services in the Concurrent Legislative List, it will not be out of place for the Federal Government to direct the Nigerian Correctional Service to transfer the control and management of one of the correctional centres in Lagos State… to the Lagos State Government,” he said.

According to him, such a move would help tackle “weak oversight, inadequate funding, lack of transparency and overcrowding in the present Nigerian correctional facilities.”

Pedro reaffirmed the state’s commitment to balancing justice and human rights.

“Lagos State remains resolute in its commitment to justice sector reforms and will continue to implement measures that ensure a balanced approach between victims’ right to justice, public safety, offenders’ rehabilitation and the protection of fundamental human rights,” he said.