The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, has announced the signing of five new laws by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, including the Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law, which prohibits illegal organ harvesting.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Ministry of Justice in Alausa, Ikeja, Pedro highlighted the significance of the new laws, which aim to improve the welfare, security, and prosperity of Lagos residents.
The Five New Laws
- Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law
- Prohibits illegal organ harvesting and regulates organ transplantation processes to ensure ethical practices.
- Bans the advertisement of human organ sales.
- Violators face up to 10 years imprisonment or fines of up to N10 million.
- Consumer Protection Law
- Strengthens the rights of Lagos residents as consumers and holds businesses accountable for hazardous or unethical practices.
- Violations may result in fines up to N5 million or sealing of business premises.
- Offenders face penalties of six months imprisonment or a N500,000 fine, with stricter punishments for repeat offenders.
- Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Law
- Establishes a framework for the training and professional development of enforcement officers to ensure better compliance with state regulations.
- Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law
- Provides a robust system for protecting victims and witnesses involved in legal proceedings, ensuring their safety and encouraging participation in justice processes.
- Fire and Rescue Service Law
- Enhances the capacity and operations of fire and rescue services in Lagos State, prioritizing safety and effective response to emergencies.
Pedro noted that these laws reflect the government's commitment to addressing critical issues such as public welfare, human rights, safety, and environmental sustainability.
“These laws are milestones in the state’s legislative journey and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to ensuring Lagos remains a beacon of progress, justice, and opportunity in Nigeria,” Pedro stated.
He urged Lagos residents to familiarize themselves with the laws and actively participate in their enforcement to help create a more just and secure society.
