The Lagos State Government is set to begin collaborations with various key stakeholders to strengthen justice delivery in the state.
Lagos Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, made this declaration at a Press Briefing held on Monday to mark his First Anniversary in Office, announcing a high profile Strategic Meeting to strengthen inter-agency collaborations, improve the enforcement of laws and Administration of Justice and strengthen justice delivery across Lagos State.
He added that the meeting, themed: “Enhancing Collaboration for Effective Justice Delivery” is scheduled for October 23rd and 24th, 2024, at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Isaac John Street, GRA Ikeja, Lagos.
According to the AG, the meeting is a key follow-up to the Lagos Justice Summit held in May 2024, where stakeholders identified the need for enhanced cooperation within the justice system.
He asserted that the strategic gathering is being organised to harmonise operations of various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to improve service delivery and reduce government liabilities, particularly in areas such as land administration, physical planning and environmental management.
“The meeting will serve as a platform for engaging stakeholders in an open dialogue aimed at advancing the justice delivery system in Lagos State”, he said.
Pedro further noted that over the past year, under the able leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the Ministry of Justice has made significant strides in facilitating the enforcement of laws and enhancing Justice Administration.
“The Ministry’s focus has remained steadfast on ensuring justice is accessible to all residents, irrespective of socio-economic background. In line with the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda, numerous initiatives have been introduced, including the completion of the JIC Taylor Magistrate Court House and the provision of official quarters for Magistrates.
“Key improvements have been seen in legal services access, prosecution processes, and support for the vulnerable. The Lagos State Criminal Information System has been launched, capturing biometric data and tracking cases of all inmates in the state’s correctional centres. In addition, new bills on civil justice and land administration reforms are being forwarded to the Lagos State House of Assembly”, he noted.
He further highlighted other key innovations, including a bill for establishing a Lis Pendens Registry, which will serve as a repository for information on land disputes in court. The aim of the registry is to prevent unsuspecting purchasers from buying land involved in litigation, while also enhancing confidence in real estate investment within the state.
Furthermore, Pedro mentioned a proposed bill for creating a Customary Marriage and Dissolution Registry. This will allow residents of Lagos State to obtain official certificates for customary marriages and their dissolutions.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice further underscored the importance of ongoing dialogue and cooperation among all stakeholders to create a more efficient and equitable justice system.
He highlighted the crucial roles of the media, community leaders, and government agencies in this effort, noting that media coverage is essential in fostering transparency and accountability.
Speaking earlier, the Acting Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. Hameed Oyenuga expressed his appreciation to all participants for their commitment to the state’s justice sector reforms.
Oyenuga highlighted the importance of inclusive dialogue and urged stakeholders to take full advantage of the collaborative opportunity to address pressing challenges.
“Your input will be vital in shaping a more efficient and equitable justice system for Lagos State residents, ” he stated.
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