The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, paid an official visit to the Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre on Thursday, 13th March 2025 to take a comprehensive tour of the facility to assess the conditions and engage with both inmates and correctional officers.
This visit reaffirms the Lagos State Government’s commitment to justice sector reforms and the well-being of inmates.
During his tour, the Attorney General engaged directly with inmates, listened to their concerns, and reassured them of the government’s resolve to enhance the criminal justice system. He acknowledged the serene atmosphere in the facility and commended the various rehabilitative programs designed to prepare inmates for reintegration into society.
Pedro further reiterated that the government is actively exploring measures to decongest correctional facilities through optimisation of initiatives such as plea bargaining, restorative justice, community service and prerogative of mercy for Governor’s pardon and release of deserving convicts. He emphasized that justice must balance the interests of the victim, the defendant, and society as a whole.
As part of these efforts, Mr. Pedro, SAN, announced that although the correctional facilities are under the management and control the federal government, the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has been magnanimous to approve the provision of two coaster buses to ease the transportation of inmates to and from court, ensuring timely and efficient judicial proceedings.
The Controller of Corrections, G.O. Damilola, expressed appreciation for the visit and noted that the provision of the buses would significantly ease logistical challenges and enhance inmates’ access to justice.
Mr. Pedro, SAN, also urged inmates to take full advantage of the educational, vocational, and skills acquisition programs available within the facility and assures that the Lagos State Government is committed to a justice system that is not only punitive but also corrective and rehabilitative.
Many inmates expressed their gratitude, stating that visits such as this provide them with hope and a sense of belonging in society.
The visit concluded with a renewed commitment from the Ministry of Justice and the Nigerian Correctional Service to strengthen collaboration and implement reforms that will benefit both inmates and the justice sector at large.
