Lagos State Enacts New Laws to Enhance Public Welfare and Combat Illegal Organ Harvesting
LAGOS – In a significant legislative development, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, announced the signing of the Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Bill into law, aimed at prohibiting illegal organ harvesting. This announcement was made on Thursday during a press briefing at the Ministry of Justice in Alausa, Ikeja, where Pedro also highlighted the enactment of four additional laws.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s endorsement of these new laws demonstrates his administration’s commitment to ensuring the welfare, security, and prosperity of all Lagos residents. In total, the new legislative measures include the Consumer Protection Law, the Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Laws, Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Laws, and the Fire and Rescue Service Laws.
Pedro emphasized that these laws represent significant progress in Lagos State’s legislative journey, underscoring the government’s dedication to making Lagos a model of progress, justice, and opportunity within Nigeria. He stated, “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.”
The recently enacted laws address critical public welfare issues, human rights protection, safety, and environmental sustainability. Among these, the Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law is particularly noteworthy as it marks a significant advancement in consumer rights. With Lagos being a major center for commerce and trade, the protection of residents’ interests is paramount.
Pedro further explained, “This law empowers consumers to hold businesses accountable and guarantees strict enforcement of their rights.” Violations of this law may lead to the sealing of premises that sell hazardous products, with fines reaching up to N5 million for offenders. Those found guilty may face up to six months in prison or a fine of N500,000; repeat offenders could incur harsher penalties, including fines of up to N750,000 and longer prison sentences.
Moreover, the Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplantation Law provides a robust framework to combat illicit organ trafficking and unethical medical practices, prohibiting organ harvesting without proper authorization and outlawing advertisements for the sale of human organs. According to Pedro, this legislation is designed to protect individuals from exploitation and ensure that medical procedures comply with the highest ethical standards. Offenders could face up to 10 years in prison or fines as steep as N10 million.
In conclusion, the Commissioner for Justice urged residents of Lagos to familiarize themselves with these new laws and actively participate in their enforcement to foster a just and secure environment for all.
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