Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the release and commutation of sentences for 91 prison inmates as part of activities marking the 2025 United Nations Human Rights Day.
At a press briefing, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, said the annual December 10 observance reflects a global commitment to dignity, equality, and the rule of law. He described the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights as “the moral and legal compass for nations committed to justice and human dignity.”
Pedro highlighted Lagos State’s long-standing dedication to human rights, recalling that the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights was established in 1999 to empower citizens, promote access to justice, and curb abuses.
In the past year alone, the directorate handled approximately 1,950 petitions, resolved 1,200 cases through mediation, and is currently pursuing nearly 50 fundamental rights cases across Federal and State High Courts involving unlawful arrests, police misconduct, property disputes, and child custody matters.
Providing details on the Governor’s approval, the Attorney-General said the releases will occur in phases:
- Immediate Release: 80 inmates who have served at least 70% of their sentences will be freed at once.
- Phased Release: 11 inmates will regain their freedom between January and April 2026.
- Commutation: All inmates on death row will have their sentences reduced to life imprisonment.
Pedro urged Lagos residents to remain law-abiding and to respect the rights of others, stressing that the protection of fundamental freedoms remains central to the state government’s human rights agenda.
