The Lagos State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), has confirmed that the toxicology report and other forensic analyses from the United States concerning the late singer Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, have been received. Pedro revealed that the autopsy report is now with the Lagos State Pathologist and the Coroner Magistrate responsible for the case.
Pedro made this announcement during a press conference held at the Ministry of Justice in Alausa, Ikeja, where he addressed upcoming strategic meetings and his first year in office. While answering questions about the investigation into Mohbad’s death, he acknowledged delays but assured the public that thorough and comprehensive investigations are being carried out.
He explained, “Yes, there has been a delay in the case, but this is due to the time required for a full investigation, including forensic analysis and toxicology, which are essential for building a solid case that can stand up in court.”
The Attorney General clarified that the forensic examination would not have been outsourced to the United States if the Lagos DNA and Forensic Centre had not been destroyed during the #EndSARS protests in October 2020.
Ongoing Legal Challenges and Delays
Pedro also touched on other high-profile legal cases, including the trial of a female lawyer, Otike-Odibi, who was charged with the murder of her husband, Symphorosa Otike-Odibi, and mutilating his body. He noted that the case had been delayed after critical files were lost when the Igbosere High Court was set on fire during the #EndSARS protests. The case has since been reassigned to Justice Sherifat Sonaike, following the retirement of the previous judge.
Pedro assured that reforms are in place to prevent such delays in the future. He said, “No case will be allowed to drag on for more than 24 months in court moving forward.” He also announced that a bill for the enactment of the Administration of Civil Justice Law had been sent to the Lagos State House of Assembly. The proposed law aims to cap litigation duration at 18 to 24 months, with tenancy matters resolved within three to six months.
Legal Reforms in Lagos State
The Attorney General outlined various initiatives aimed at improving the efficiency of Lagos’ judicial system. One of these includes the introduction of the Lagos State Criminal Information System, which captures photographs, biometrics, and case histories of all inmates in the state’s correctional facilities. Additionally, the establishment of a Lis Pendens Registry for land matters will track ongoing court cases related to land disputes, preventing unwitting third parties from purchasing properties under litigation.
Pedro also mentioned a proposed bill to create a Customary Marriage and Dissolution Registry, which would offer certificates for customary marriages and their dissolutions, providing legal recognition to the institution under the state’s jurisdiction.
Justice Infrastructure Improvements
The Lagos Attorney General disclosed that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had approved funds for the completion and furnishing of the JIC Taylor Magistrate Court House at Igbosere. The funds will also cover the payment for 34 flats of official quarters for magistrates. Pedro emphasized that these efforts are part of broader plans to enhance the delivery of justice across the state.
Strategic Stakeholders’ Meeting Announced
Pedro concluded by announcing a strategic stakeholders’ meeting scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, designed to foster collaboration among justice sector agencies and improve law enforcement throughout Lagos State. The meeting will address recommendations from the Lagos Justice Summit held in May, which called for greater inter-agency cooperation to enhance the effectiveness of the justice system.
“This meeting is a response to the insights from the Justice Summit, where key stakeholders agreed on the need for better coordination to ensure that justice is not just an ideal but a tangible reality for Lagos residents,” Pedro stated. The focus will be on harmonizing the operations of ministries and departments to streamline service delivery, particularly in land administration, environmental management, and physical planning.
As Lagos continues to grapple with ongoing legal challenges and reforms, these efforts are seen as essential steps towards improving the overall justice system in Nigeria’s largest city.
