The Attorney-General of Lagos State and the Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN) has disclosed that the Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation bill was signed into law to prohibit illegal organ harvesting in the state.

Pedro said the government’s priorities have always been to address the immediate needs of the citizens, protect their rights, and ensure their safety, and health. He made this known while briefing newsmen on the significance of the new law at the Ministry of Justice, Alausa, Ikeja.

The AG said Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu signed other bills into law to show commitment to the welfare, security and prosperity of every Lagosian. Other four new laws include Consumer Protection Law; Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Laws; Victims Assistance, Witness Protection Laws and Fire and Rescue Service Laws.

He said the laws are not just milestones in the state’s legislative journey but demonstrate unwavering government commitment to ensuring that Lagos remains a beacon of progress, justice, and opportunity in Nigeria.

According to him, the newly signed laws cover some critical areas of public welfare, human rights, safety, and environmental sustainability. These laws, he said, have been thoughtfully designed to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing the state, while paving the way for a more just, secure and prosperous future for all residents of Lagos.

Pedro also explained that the Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplantation Law addressed illicit organ trade and unethical medical practices. He said it was a groundbreaking framework to regulate organ harvesting and transplant in the state, adding that the law prohibits organ harvesting without proper authorisation and bans advertisements for the sale of human organs.

He also stated that the Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law signified a leap forward in enhancing consumer rights in the state. Pedro said it is imperative that the interests of the residents are safeguarded as Lagos continues to be a hub of commerce, business and trade.

“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 fines of up to N5 million for violations.

“Offenders face penalties, including a custodial sentence of six months or N500,000 fine and subsequent offenders will receive stricter punishments, including fines of up to N750,000 and longer sentences. Violators risk up to 10 years’ imprisonment or a fine of up to N10 million,” Pedro said. He urged all residents to familiarise themselves with the laws and to actively engage in their enforcement.