Lagos Releases 43 Inmates, Intensifies Correctional Reforms

The Lagos State Government, led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the release of 43 inmates from correctional facilities across the state as part of efforts to decongest prisons and advance criminal justice reforms.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), disclosed that the decision follows a similar exercise in December 2025, during which 91 inmates were freed.

According to him, the release was carried out under the governor’s constitutional prerogative of mercy, as stipulated in Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). The beneficiaries were selected based on recommendations from the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, in line with established legal procedures.

Officials noted that the move reflects the government’s commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law, while also addressing the longstanding issue of overcrowding in correctional centres, which has continued to strain facilities and slow judicial processes.

To ease logistical challenges, particularly in transporting inmates to court, the state government last year provided two coaster buses to the Nigerian Correctional Service. Authorities say this intervention is expected to speed up trials and reduce delays caused by inadequate transportation.

In addition, the government has begun renovating and upgrading correctional facilities to improve conditions and meet acceptable standards.

The state also called for broader reforms at the federal level, urging the Federal Government to hand over control of at least one correctional facility in Lagos to the state. Officials argue that this would enhance management of facilities housing mainly state offenders and help tackle issues such as poor oversight, underfunding, lack of transparency, and chronic congestion.

Reaffirming its position, the government said it remains committed to a justice system that balances public safety, victims’ rights, and the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders, while upholding fundamental human rights.