Lagos State House of Assembly Deepens Stakeholder Engagement as Correctional Service Bill 2025 Moves Forward

On August 1, 2025, the Lagos State House of Assembly hosted a robust public hearing on the Lagos State Correctional Service Bill, 2025, a landmark piece of legislation sponsored by *Rt. Hon. Dr. Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa,* Speaker of the House. The Bill seeks to overhaul the state’s correctional system, transitioning it from punitive detention to rehabilitation and reintegration-centered services.

Presiding over the hearing was *Hon. Oladipo Ajomale, Esq.,* Member representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency II and Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary, Public Petitions, Human Rights, and LASIEC. He emphasized that justice must go beyond punishment to become a tool for healing and reform.

The hearing underscored the critical role of public education in changing the societal perception of correctional services. Stakeholders agreed that continuous education of the public, especially youth, will help reduce crime and promote rehabilitation. It was also proposed that young people be included in the formation of the Correctional Service Board, ensuring youth representation in governance and policy-making.

*Hon. Noheem Adams,* Majority Leader and Member representing Eti-Osa Constituency I, described the Bill as a step forward in social justice, praising its alignment with global human rights standards. He stressed the importance of ensuring hygienic, humane, and secure correctional facilities, alongside robust oversight structures.

Representing the Speaker was *Hon. Owolabi Ibrahim A.,* Member for Lagos Mainland Constituency I, who reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to justice sector reform and to passing legislation that responds to the evolving needs of Lagosians.

*Hon. Mr. Lawal Pedro, (SAN*), the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, called for additional review of specific clauses to strengthen the Bill’s enforceability and consistency with existing laws. His contribution added vital legal depth to the legislative discussion.

The hearing witnessed diverse and active participation from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Department of State Services (DSS), Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), as well as councillors from both Isolo and Ejigbo Local Council Development Areas, and various concerned citizens and legal experts.

The Bill takes advantage of the 2023 constitutional amendment that moved prison administration from the Exclusive to the Concurrent Legislative List. This gives states like Lagos the power to design and manage their own correctional systems. The Bill introduces a two-part structure, Custodial and Non-Custodial Services and includes provisions for parole, probation, community service, and restorative justice. It also empowers the Controller-General to alert the government on overcrowding issues and allows for the rejection of new inmates if timely action is not taken.

The Lagos State House of Assembly extends special thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the public hearing including legal experts, government agencies, youth representatives, civil society actors, and the general public. Your participation and insights are invaluable to shaping a functional and transformative correctional service framework in the state.

The House Committee will now consolidate inputs, implement necessary amendments, and prepare the Bill for final reading. When passed, the Lagos State Correctional Service Law will stand as a progressive tool for justice, equity, and rehabilitation in Nigeria’s most populous state.

Office of Hon. Ladi Ajomale, Esq; Member, Lagos State House of Assembly,Oshodi-Isolo Constituency II Chairman, House Committee on Judiciary, Public Petitions, Human Rights & LASIEC