Lagos State Governor Signs Laws to Improve Human Rights

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has signed new Bills into law that address critical areas of public welfare, human rights, safety, and environmental sustainability, as part of the State effort to shape the future of Lagos and improve the quality of life for all residents. 

The Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, announced this at a news conference in Alausa, Ikeja. According to him, the new laws include: Consumer Protection Law; Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law; Fire and Rescue Service Law; Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Law; and Victim Assistance and Witness Protection Law.

“These laws are not just milestones in Lagos State’s legislative journey; they demonstrate our unwavering commitment to ensuring that Lagos remains a beacon of progress, justice, and opportunity in Nigeria”, he stated.

Mr Pedro emphasised that the Government’s priorities have always been to address the immediate needs of citizens, protect their rights, and ensure their safety, health, and prosperity. He noted that the recently signed laws address critical areas of public welfare, human rights, safety, and environmental sustainability.

“These laws have been thoughtfully designed to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing our State while paving the way for a more just, secure, and prosperous future for all residents of Lagos”, he added.

The foremost law is the Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law, which marks a significant advancement in enhancing consumer rights in the State. As Lagos continues to be a hub for commerce and trade, it is essential to safeguard the interests of its residents.

Mr Pedro highlighted this law, as a major step forward in protecting residents. “As Lagos thrives as a centre of commerce and trade, the rights of our citizens must be protected”, he said.

The law establishes the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, tasked with investigating unfair trade practices, consumer fraud, and substandard products.

“This law empowers consumers to hold businesses accountable, and ensures strict enforcement of their rights”, Pedro remarked.

Key provisions include the authority to seal premises selling hazardous products, and impose fines of up to N5 million for violations. Offenders may face penalties such as a custodial sentence of six months or fines starting at N1,000, with subsequent offenders facing stricter penalties, including fines of up to N2,000 and longer sentences.

Mr Pedro also discussed the Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplantation Law, which aims to combat illicit organ trade and unethical medical practices. He described it as “a groundbreaking framework to regulate organ harvesting and transplantation in Lagos State”. The law prohibits organ harvesting without proper authorisation, and bans advertisements for the sale of human organs. Violators risk up to 10 years imprisonment, or fines of up to N10 million.

The Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law, provides support and protection for crime victims and witnesses. “This law ensures that those who testify in court or suffer from crimes are not left vulnerable”, Pedro noted.

The law offers measures such as relocation, legal aid, and psychological support. “By safeguarding victims and witnesses, we create a safer environment and foster greater cooperation within the criminal justice system”, he added.

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Law, reorganises the State’s fire services to improve their capacity. Mr Pedro emphasised its importance, stating, “This law transforms our fire service into a world-class safety and rescue organisation equipped to handle emergencies effectively”.

The law imposes penalties for fire safety violations, including fines of up to N2 million or two years imprisonment for severe offences. Companies may face fines of up to N5 million for violations resulting in catastrophic damage.

Finally, the Lagos State Enforcement Training Institute Law aims to professionalise law enforcement agencies, by providing enhanced training and capacity-building.

Mr Pedro concluded, “These laws reflect our government’s focus on protecting rights, improving safety, and ensuring the prosperity of every Lagosian. They are thoughtfully crafted to address pressing issues and secure a brighter future for all”.