Kehinde Fajobi
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved the release of 55 inmates from various correctional facilities in the state, following recommendations from the Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy.
In a statement signed by the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, it was explained that 40 of the inmates are to be released immediately, while the remaining will complete additional terms of three to six months before their discharge.
Pedro said the release order reflects the governor’s use of powers under Section 212 (1) & (2) of the 1999 Constitution and aligns with Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to decongesting correctional centres as part of broader justice sector reforms in Lagos.
Pedro added that the Advisory Council carefully reviewed each application based on guidelines provided by correctional authorities.
These included factors such as the nature of the offence, time served, inmate behaviour, age, health, and the recommendations of correctional staff.
“The order is to be complied with after completion of the release administrative process by the correctional facilities,” Pedro stated.