- World Human Rights Day: Lagos Govt Releases 91 Prison Inmates
- Six will regain freedom by January 31, 2026
- Pedro commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his continued support for justice sector
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the release of 91 inmates from correctional facilities in the state as part of activities marking the 2025 World Human Rights Day.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the decision, aimed at reinforcing the state’s commitment to the rule of law and protection of fundamental human rights, was announced on Wednesday by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, during a press briefing in Lagos.
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Pedro said the release followed recommendations from the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy and applies to convicts who have served more than 75% of their sentences.
According to him, 80 inmates will be released immediately, while six will regain freedom by January 31, 2026. Three inmates are scheduled for release by February 28, 2026, one by March 31, 2026, and another by April 30, 2026. He added that two inmates on death row have had their sentences commuted to life imprisonment.
The Attorney-General said the gesture aligns with the observance of World Human Rights Day, marked globally every December 10 to commemorate the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948.
He explained that the 2025 theme, “Human Rights: Our Everyday Essentials,” underscores the fact that fundamental rights are not privileges but essential guarantees necessary for dignity, safety, and wellbeing.
Pedro also reflected on Nigeria’s democratic evolution, recalling that prolonged military rule before 1999 was characterised by suspended constitutional rights, unlawful detentions, suppression of free speech, and restricted access to justice.
He said the return to democratic governance led to the establishment of the Directorate of Citizens’ Rights (DCR) by the Lagos State Government to promote access to justice and defend citizens’ rights.
According to him, the Directorate has grown into a central component of the state’s justice system, handling matters ranging from unlawful detention, tenancy disputes, children’s rights, workplace grievances, and family conflicts to debtor-creditor cases and the protection of persons living with HIV.
“In the past year alone, the Directorate received about 1,950 petitions, mediated over 1,200 cases, and is currently handling about 50 fundamental rights suits involving police misconduct, unlawful detention, property disputes, and parental access,” Pedro said.
He commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for his continued support for justice sector reforms and human rights protection, while urging residents to respect the law and work with the government to build a fair, peaceful, and inclusive society.
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