The Lagos State Government has intensified its efforts to safeguard public welfare and human rights with the enactment of five new laws, including the Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law, aimed at curbing illegal organ harvesting 
This was announced by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, during a press briefing on Thursday at the Ministry of Justice, Alausa, Ikeja. Pedro stated that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu signed the laws as part of his administration’s commitment to the security, welfare, and prosperity of Lagos residents.
Other newly enacted laws include the Consumer Protection Law, Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Law, Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law, and the Fire and Rescue Service Law.
“These laws are not just milestones in the state’s legislative journey; they demonstrate our unwavering commitment to ensuring that Lagos remains a beacon of progress, justice, and opportunity in Nigeria,” Pedro said.
He emphasized that the laws were designed to address pressing issues affecting the state, including public welfare, human rights, safety, and environmental sustainability.
Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law
Describing the Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law as groundbreaking, Pedro explained that it aims to combat illegal organ trade and unethical medical practices in Lagos. The law strictly prohibits the unauthorized harvesting of human organs and bans advertisements for organ sales.
According to Pedro, violators of the law could face up to 10 years imprisonment or fines of up to ₦10 million. “This legislation protects individuals from exploitation while ensuring that medical procedures comply with the highest ethical standards,” he noted.
Consumer Protection Law
On the Consumer Protection Law, Pedro described it as a significant milestone in safeguarding consumer rights across Lagos. The law empowers residents to hold businesses accountable for the sale of substandard or harmful products.
Pedro revealed that violations of the law attract severe penalties. First-time offenders may face fines of up to ₦500,000 or six months imprisonment, while repeat offenders risk fines of up to ₦750,000 and longer prison sentences. Additionally, the government can seal off business premises found to be selling harmful products.
“This law empowers consumers to hold businesses accountable and enforces their rights rigorously,” Pedro stated, adding that it aims to ensure consumer safety as Lagos continues to grow as a hub for commerce and trade.
Other New Laws
The Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Law seeks to professionalize the training of enforcement officers in the state, while the Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law is designed to provide support and protection for victims and witnesses of crimes. The Fire and Rescue Service Law focuses on improving emergency response and disaster management in Lagos.
Pedro urged Lagos residents to familiarize themselves with the new laws and play an active role in ensuring their enforcement for the collective welfare and security of the state.
“These laws reflect the government’s determination to address the immediate needs of citizens, protect their rights, and ensure their safety and prosperity,” he said.
The Attorney-General concluded by reaffirming that the laws are critical to the ongoing efforts to create a more just, secure, and prosperous future for all Lagos residents.
