Lagos MoJ Diverts Minor Theft Case to Restorative Justice

In line with its reform agenda and commitment to decongesting correctional facilities across the state, the Lagos State Ministry of Justice (MoJ), through its Restorative Justice Centre (RJC), in collaboration with the Non-Custodial/Community Service Centre (CSC), has secured a community service sentence for two bakery workers accused of stealing from their employer.

The workers were alleged to have stolen five loaves of bread, with their employer insisting they must be prosecuted in court. However, under the Ministry’s innovative sifting process at the Magistrate Courts, a District Prosecutor reviewed the case and directed both parties to the Restorative Justice Centre instead of filing charges.

“Following a successful mediation at the centre, the parties reached an agreement whereby the offenders would serve two weeks of community service, which commenced immediately,” the MoJ stated.

The resolution underscores the government’s effort to explore alternatives to imprisonment for minor offences. It also demonstrates how restorative justice can foster reconciliation between victims and offenders while ensuring accountability without the burden of custodial sentencing.

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“This resolution highlights the Ministry’s proactive approach to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and accountability, while demonstrating the effectiveness of restorative justice in resolving minor offences,” the statement added.

By diverting such cases away from conventional courts, the Ministry aims to reduce the strain on correctional facilities while encouraging offenders to make amends to society.