The Lagos State Ministry of Justice, through its Community Service Unit (CSU), organised a sensitisation and medical outreach for residents of Lagos Island East and West Local Government Areas.
The initiative is part of ongoing efforts to promote public understanding of community service as a non-custodial sentencing option under the state’s Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL).
Held at the Lagos Island Local Government Secretariat and themed “Justice that Serves the Community,” the event brought together market leaders, elderly residents and local government officials.Speaking at the programme, the Chairman of All Chairmen in the 36 States, Mr. Williams, emphasised that obedience to the law is essential for safety, order and societal development.
He described community service as a mindset that enhances security and promotes peaceful coexistence, noting that no administration can thrive without respect for law and order.
Delivering the keynote address, the Director of Community Service, Mrs.Tomi Bodunde, said the initiative aims to expand public awareness of community service as a lawful and effective component of the criminal justice system.
She explained that community service plays a crucial role in rehabilitating minor offenders, decongesting correctional centres and preventing first-time offenders from being exposed to hardened criminals.
Mrs. Bodude urged the public not to stigmatise individuals serving community service, stressing their potential for reform and reintegration.
Vice-Chairman Mrs. Balogun Monsurat Oluwatosin, who represented the Chairman of Lagos Island East Local Government, reaffirmed the council’s support for the initiative.
Similarly, the Chairman of Lagos Island West Local Government, Hon. Taiwo Ajibade Oyekan—represented by Vice-Chairman Issa Arulai Olatunji Folami—commended the Ministry for enlightening residents on lawful opportunities that allow offenders to rebuild their lives.
More than 400 residents took part in the sensitisation programme, while the medical outreach recorded 100 beneficiaries—50 from each local government area.
Services provided included malaria testing, blood pressure and blood sugar checks, health education and medication distribution.
Mrs. Bodude expressed gratitude to stakeholders, including local authorities, medical teams, security agencies and partner organisations, for their collaboration.
She added that the outreach demonstrates the government’s commitment to community wellbeing through accessible healthcare and continuous justice sector engagement.
Reporting by Wahab Bello