The Lagos State Government has authorized the release and commutation of sentences for 91 inmates, a move that reaffirms its dedication to upholding justice, fundamental freedoms, and ensuring access to legal redress. Speaking at a press briefing in Lagos, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, commented that the yearly December 10 event demonstrates the worldwide pledge to maintain human dignity, equality, and the rule of law. He characterized the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights as the “moral and legal compass guiding nations committed to justice and human dignity.” Mr. Pedro highlighted that the state founded the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights (DCR) in 1999, following years of military governance, as a “deliberate democratic initiative to empower citizens, provide access to justice, and prevent recurrence of past abuses.” Over the preceding year, the directorate processed approximately 1,950 petitions, successfully settling 1,200 of them through mediation, with the remaining cases currently under investigation or pending in court. He further mentioned that Lagos is currently handling nearly 50 fundamental rights cases in both Federal and State High Courts, addressing issues such as illegal detention, police misconduct, property disputes, and child custody matters. Regarding the staged release of inmates, Mr. Pedro specified that the Governor has approved the release of 80 inmates who have already served over 70 percent of their sentences. Furthermore, six inmates are scheduled for release by January 31, 2026; three by February 28; one by March 31; and the remainder by April 30, bringing the overall total to 91. He also confirmed that the death sentences for all affected death row inmates have been commuted to life imprisonment. The Attorney-General urged Lagos residents to respect the rights of others and adhere to the law, stressing that the protection of fundamental freedoms remains central to the state’s human rights agenda.
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