Lagos govt clarifies proposed Magistrates’ Law amendment

The Lagos State Government has clarified its stance on the proposed amendment to the Magistrates’ Law before the State House of Assembly. Contrary to recent controversy, the amendment is not an executive bill but a private member’s bill aimed at resolving structural issues within the justice system. The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, SAN, addressed the confusion, stating that his office did not sponsor the proposal and it was introduced independently.

Pedro explained that the Ministry of Justice's position was based on the government's longstanding policy since 1997, aimed at harmonising the conditions of service for law officers and Magistrates. This policy is not unique to Lagos, as several other states such as Abia, Kogi, Benue, Imo, and Kwara have enacted similar legislation to ensure parity in remuneration and conditions of service.

Pedro emphasized that the proposed amendment should be seen as an extension of an existing policy rather than an attempt to introduce new privileges for specific officers. He cited Osun State's 2023 legislation raising the retirement age of justice system personnel to 65 years, influenced by the 2023 constitutional amendment that increased High Court judges' retirement age from 65 to 70.

The amendment seeks to address the reduced opportunities for career advancement in the lower judiciary and the Ministry of Justice due to fewer vacancies in High Court Bench positions following the constitutional change. Pedro highlighted that the reform aims to establish a more coherent career structure, ensure fair succession planning, and promote stability within the justice system.

If approved, the legislative change would support the development of Lagos State’s justice system and enable the government to benefit from the experience and expertise of seasoned judicial and legal officers.