The Lagos State government has signed into law the highly anticipated Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law, along with four other key bills aimed at improving public safety and welfare.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos, Lawal Pedro, made the announcement during a briefing held at the Ministry of Justice in Alausa, Ikeja, on Thursday.
Pedro explained that the new laws were part of the government’s ongoing efforts to protect residents, ensure justice, and promote the welfare of all Lagosians.
The Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law specifically targets illegal organ harvesting, a practice that has raised concerns in Nigeria and other parts of the world.
Pedro said the law aims to regulate organ transplants and protect individuals from exploitation. He emphasized that unauthorized organ harvesting is now a criminal offense, punishable by up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to N10 million.
“This law will ensure that medical practices are carried out in line with the highest ethical standards,” Pedro said. “It also aims to eradicate the illegal trade of human organs.”
In addition to the organ transplant law, the Lagos government signed into law several other important bills. These include the Consumer Protection Law, the Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Law, the Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law, and the Fire and Rescue Service Law.
Pedro highlighted that these new laws reflect Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to making Lagos a safer, more prosperous city for all.
“These laws are not just legislative achievements; they demonstrate our commitment to making Lagos a model of progress, justice, and opportunity in Nigeria,” Pedro stated.
He went on to explain that the new laws were designed to address critical issues of public welfare, human rights, and environmental sustainability.
The Consumer Protection Law, in particular, aims to strengthen the rights of Lagos consumers, especially as the state continues to grow as a commercial hub.
Pedro said the new law will empower consumers to hold businesses accountable for their actions, ensuring that they have the means to protect their interests.
“Businesses must operate fairly and transparently,” Pedro stressed. “This law provides consumers with the power to challenge businesses that sell hazardous products or violate their rights.”
Under the new Consumer Protection Law, businesses that violate consumer rights face severe penalties, including fines of up to N5 million and potential jail time. Repeat offenders may face even harsher penalties, including fines of up to N750,000.
Pedro also highlighted the significance of the Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law, which aims to protect those who have suffered from crimes and to encourage witnesses to come forward without fear of retribution.
“This law will ensure that victims and witnesses of crime receive the support they need to rebuild their lives and help in the pursuit of justice,” he explained.
The Fire and Rescue Service Law establishes a stronger framework for the state’s emergency services, improving their ability to respond to disasters and accidents swiftly and efficiently.
Pedro urged residents to familiarize themselves with the new laws and to actively engage in their enforcement, as this would contribute to a safer and more just society for all.
The signing of these new laws by Governor Sanwo-Olu has been hailed as a significant step towards improving the legal and regulatory environment in Lagos.
