The Lagos State Government has enacted five new laws aimed at safeguarding the rights, welfare and security of residents in the state.
Addressing a press conference yestersay, the state Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, noted that the five new laws recently passed by the State House of Assembly and accented by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, are aimed at positioning Lagos as a model for progress and justice in the country.
The new laws are; Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law, Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplant Law, Lagos State Enforcement Training Institute Law, Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Law.
According to Mr Pedro, the new laws represent the state government’s commitment to address the needs of Lagos residents, safeguarding their rights and creating a more just, secure and prosperous state.
Highlighting the key provisions of the Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law, Pedro said: ‘As Lagos continues to be a hub of commerce, business, and trade, it is imperative that the interests of our residents are safeguarded. This law establishes the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, an autonomous body charged with investigating unfair trade practices, consumer fraud, substandard products, and deceptive practices.
“By providing Lagosians with an avenue for redress, this law empowers consumers to demand accountability from businesses. It also mandates strict enforcement of consumer rights, ensuring that Lagos residents are protected from exploitation and harm in their transactions.”
Also highlight the highpoints of the Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplant Law which regulates organ donation and ban illegal harvesting and sales, Pedro noted that the law represents a groundbreaking approach to addressing a growing concern in the health sector.
He said: ‘With increasing reports of illicit organ trade and unethical medical practices, this legislation establishes a legal framework to regulate organ harvesting and tissue transplantation in Lagos State.
“The law is designed to prevent illegal activities related to the trafficking of human organs and tissue, and it promotes ethical medical practices by ensuring that all such procedures are conducted with proper consent and oversight. It aims to protect individuals from being coerced or exploited while ensuring that the medical community upholds the highest standards of ethics.”
Speaking on the key provisions of the Victim Assistance and Witness Protection Law which provides support and safety for crime victims and witnesses through relocation, legal aid and counseling, Pedro said: “Through this legislation, the state offers various forms of assistance, such as relocation, legal aid, and psychological support, to help individuals navigate the often difficult and dangerous aftermath of their involvement in criminal cases.”
On the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service Law enacted to improve fire services and enforces safety measures, Pedro said the new law repealed the Fire Service Law, 2015 and addresses its inadequacies by providing the prescription of fire safety requirements for buildings, cars and oil and gas facilities, as well as provide a clear fire prevention regime.
”The fifth law is the Lagos State Enforcement Training Institute Law which seeks to enhance training for law enforcement officers to improve professionalism and public safety, “he added.
While urging residents to familiarize themselves with the new laws and actively engage in the implementation, Pedro reaffirmed that Lagos State Government remains resolute in its mission to create a thriving and inclusive metropolis.
