The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has approved the release of Forty-three (43) inmates from correctional centres across the State as part of ongoing efforts to decongest custodial centres and reform the criminal justice system.
In a statement released by Lawal Pedro, SAN, who is the Attorney-General and
Commissioner for Justice, in Lagos State, 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 in Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
He added that the released inmates were duly recommended by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy in accordance with established legal and administrative guidelines.
Mr Pedro (SAN) also urged the Federal Government to direct the Nigeria Correctional Services to transfer the control and management of one of the Correctional centres in Lagos State where the majority of inmates are offenders of State Laws, to Lagos State Government, so as to address the challenges of weak oversight, inadequate funding, lack of transparency and overcrowding in the present Nigerian Correctional Facilities.
He says, this is In light of the current constitutional provisions, which places custodial and correctional services in the Concurrent Legislative List.
He stated that 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.
In December 2025, the state government released ninety-one (91) inmates from the custodial centres.
It was also revealed that the state government, within the preceding year, procured and delivered two (2) coaster buses to the Correctional Service to facilitate the timely and secure transportation of inmates to courts.
The statement added that, 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.
