The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has approved the release of 43 inmates from correctional centres across the state as part of ongoing efforts to decongest custodial facilities and reform the criminal justice system.
The move follows an earlier exercise in December 2025 when 91 inmates were freed, underscoring the state government’s sustained intervention to address overcrowding in correctional centres.
According to a statement by the Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, the inmates were granted freedom under the prerogative of mercy as provided in Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The beneficiaries were recommended by the State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy in line with established legal procedures.
The government said the initiative reflects its commitment to justice, fairness and the rule of law, while also improving conditions in custodial centres and facilitating the speedy trial of inmates through better mobility to and from courts.
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As part of broader reforms, the state had earlier provided two coaster buses to the correctional service to enhance the secure and timely transportation of inmates for court proceedings, thereby reducing delays in the justice process.
The statement also highlighted ongoing renovation and upgrade of correctional facilities across Lagos, aimed at strengthening infrastructure and improving the welfare of inmates.
The state government, however, called on the Federal Government to consider transferring the control of at least one correctional centre in Lagos to the state, noting that most inmates are offenders under state laws.
It argued that such a move would help tackle challenges of overcrowding, inadequate funding, and weak oversight.
Reaffirming its commitment to justice sector reforms, Lagos State said it would continue to pursue policies that balance victims’ rights, public safety, offender rehabilitation and the protection of fundamental human rights
