Sanwo-Olu Frees 43 Inmates To Decongest Correctional Centres

Sanwo-Olu has freed 43 inmates to decongest correctional centres.

NewsRain Nigeria reports that Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has approved the release of 43 inmates from various correctional centres across the state as part of an ongoing initiative to decongest facilities and strengthen the administration of criminal justice.

The release exercise comes barely four months after 91 inmates were freed in December 2025, underscoring the government’s sustained efforts to address overcrowding and improve conditions within custodial centres.

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According to the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), yesterday, he said the inmates were released under the Governor’s prerogative of mercy as provided in Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

Their release followed the recommendations of the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, which reviewed each case in line with established legal and administrative procedures.

Pedro said the intervention reflects the state’s commitment to justice, fairness, and the rule of law, noting that easing congestion also enhances the speed and efficiency of court processes.

He, however, recalled that the state government recently procured and delivered two coaster buses to the Nigeria Correctional Service to aid the timely transportation of inmates to and from court.

“Beyond logistics, the government has also embarked on the renovation and upgrade of buildings within the correctional centres to strengthen infrastructure and improve welfare conditions.”

The AG therefore urged the Federal Government to consider transferring the control of at least one Lagos correctional facility, particularly one housing inmates convicted under state laws, to the state government.

He said that such a move would address challenges related to weak oversight, inadequate funding, lack of transparency, and persistent overcrowding in federal-managed custodial centres.

Pedro affirmed that Lagos remains committed to wide-ranging reforms that balance victims’ rights, public safety, offender rehabilitation, and the protection of fundamental human rights.