The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has signed into law a measure prohibiting human organ harvesting, with offenders facing up to 10 years in prison.
The Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplantation Law is one of five new laws introduced by the state government last week.
Sanwo-Olu, during the signing ceremony, emphasized that the new laws were a testament to the state’s commitment to the welfare, security, and prosperity of its residents.
The other laws signed include the Lagos State Enforcement Training Institute Law, the Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law, and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Law.
At a press briefing in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), highlighted the significance of the legislation, stating that it would address the growing problem of illicit organ trade and unethical medical practices.
He called the Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplantation Law “a groundbreaking framework” that would regulate organ harvesting and transplantation.
The law specifically prohibits organ harvesting without proper authorization and bans the . of human organ sales.
Offenders will face up to 10 years imprisonment or fines of up to N10 million.
Pedro stressed that the new laws were crafted with the goal of protecting the rights, safety, and health of residents, while promoting justice, security, and environmental sustainability.
He further noted that the laws were designed to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing the state, paving the way for a more just and prosperous future for Lagosians.