The Lagos State Ministry of Justice, through its Community Service Unit (CSU), has held a sensitisation and medical outreach for residents of Lagos Island East and West Local Government Areas as part of efforts to deepen public understanding of community service as a non-custodial sentencing option under the state’s Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL).
The event, held at the Lagos Island Local Government Secretariat and themed “Justice that Serves the Community,” brought together market leaders, elderly residents, and local government officials.
Chairman of All Chairmen in the 36 States, Mr. Williams, said obedience to the law remains essential for safety, order, and societal progress.
He described community service as a mindset that strengthens security and supports peaceful coexistence, adding that no administration can succeed without adherence to law and order.
Delivering the keynote address, Director of Community Service, Mrs. Tomi Bodude, said the programme aims to enhance public awareness of community service as a lawful component of the criminal justice system.
She explained that community service helps rehabilitate minor offenders, decongest correctional centres and prevent first-time offenders from being exposed to hardened criminals.
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She urged the public not to stigmatise individuals serving community service, noting their potential for reform and reintegration.
Representing the Chairman of Lagos Island East Local Government, Muibi Alade Folawiyo, Vice-Chairman Mrs. Balogun Monsurat Oluwatosin restated the council’s support for the initiative.
The Chairman of Lagos Island West Local Government, Hon. Taiwo Ajibade Oyekan, represented by Vice-Chairman Hon. Issa Arulai Olatunji Folami, also commended the Ministry for educating residents on opportunities for offenders to rebuild their lives.
More than 400 residents participated in the sensitisation programme, while the medical outreach recorded 100 beneficiaries, 50 from each local government area.
Services provided included malaria testing, blood pressure and blood sugar checks, health education and distribution of medications.
Mrs. Bodude expressed appreciation to stakeholders, including local government officials, medical personnel, security agencies and partner organisations, for their collaboration.
She added that the outreach reflects the government’s commitment to community wellbeing through accessible health services and continuous justice sector engagement.
