LIVE UPDATES
LAGOS STATE, Nigeria — Lagos state government on Friday passed a bill seeking the elimination of illegal organ harvesting in the state.
The Attorney-General of Lagos State and the Commissioner for Justice, Mr Lawal Pedro, (SAN), disclosed that the Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Bill has been signed into law to prohibit illegal organ harvesting.
Pedro made this known during a briefing at the Ministry of Justice in Alausa, Ikeja, where he spoke on the significance of the new law and four others.
According to him, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State signed the new laws to show commitment to the welfare, security and prosperity of every Lagosian.
The other four new laws are Consumer Protection Law, Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Laws, Victims Assistance, Witness Protection Laws, and Fire and Rescue Service Laws.
He said, “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.
“As a government, our priorities have always been to address the immediate needs of our citizens, protect their rights, and ensure their safety, health, and prosperity.
“In this regard, the recently signed laws cover some critical areas of public welfare, human rights, safety, and environmental sustainability.
“These laws have been thoughtfully designed to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing our state while paving the way for a more just, secure, and prosperous future for all residents of Lagos.”
The attorney said the Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law signified a new path towards enhancing consumer rights in the state.
According to him, as Lagos continues to be a hub of commerce, business, and trade, the interests of the residents must be safeguarded.
“As Lagos continues to thrive as a hub of commerce and trade, it is crucial that the rights of our citizens are safeguarded.
“This law empowers consumers to hold businesses accountable and ensures strict enforcement of their rights.
“Violation of this law attracts the power to seal premises selling hazardous products and imposes a fine of up to N5 million for violations.
“Offenders face penalties, including a custodial sentence of six months or an N500,000 fine, and subsequent offenders will receive stricter punishments, including fines of up to N750,000 and longer sentences.”
Pedro also explained that the Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplantation Law addressed illicit organ trade and unethical medical practices.
“This legislation protects individuals from exploitation and ensures medical procedures adhere to the highest ethical standards.
”Violators risk up to 10 years imprisonment or a fine of up to N10 million,” Pedro said.
The commissioner for justice urged residents to familiarize themselves with the laws.
