The Lagos State government has signed the Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation and four other bills into law.
The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of the state, Lawal Pedro, who made this known on Thursday at a briefing held at the Ministry of Justice in Alausa, Ikeja, the state capital, said that the organ transplant law was aimed at combating illegal organ harvesting in the state.
Pedro, who also highlighted the significance of the new laws, said that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s signing of the laws demonstrates his administration’s dedication to the welfare, security, and prosperity of Lagos residents.
The other newly signed laws include the Consumer Protection Law; Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Law; Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Laws, and Fire and Rescue Service Law.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) quoted Pedro as saying, “These laws are more than just legislative achievements; they represent our strong commitment to ensuring that Lagos remains a model of progress, justice, and opportunity in Nigeria.
“Our government’s focus has always been on meeting the immediate needs of our citizens, protecting their rights, and ensuring their safety, health, and prosperity.”
He explained that the new laws address crucial issues related to public welfare, human rights, safety, and environmental sustainability, creating a more just, secure, and prosperous future for Lagos residents.
According to him, the Human Organ Harvesting and Tissue Transplantation Law will tackle illicit organ trade and unethical medical practices.
He described it as a pioneering framework to regulate organ harvesting and transplants, prohibiting organ harvesting without proper authorisation and banning advertisements for the sale of human organs.
He said, “This law aims to protect individuals from exploitation and ensures that medical procedures follow the highest ethical standards.
“Violators could face up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to N10 million.”
Pedro, who also explained the Lagos Consumer Protection Agency Law, emphasised its role in enhancing consumer rights in the state.
He stressed that, as Lagos continues to thrive as a commercial hub, it is vital to safeguard the interests of its residents.
According to him, the law empowers consumers to hold businesses accountable and ensures robust enforcement of their rights.
He noted that violators of the law would face penalties, including the power to seal premises selling hazardous products, fines of up to N5million, and imprisonment for up to six months, with repeat offenders facing harsher penalties, including fines of up to N750,000 and longer prison sentences.
He urged the residents to familiarise themselves with the new laws and actively participate in their enforcement.