Since the launch of the Lagos Criminal Information System (LCIS), a total of 74,962 criminal cases and inmates have been recorded across Lagos State between 2018 and May 2025.
EpeInsights reports that the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), revealed this during the ongoing ministerial press briefing marking the second year of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term.
The LCIS is a major digital initiative designed to streamline and modernize the state’s criminal justice system. Speaking at the event in Alausa, Ikeja, Pedro described the platform as a comprehensive databank that captures detailed records of defendants in custody or on bail including biometric data, photographs, and specific charges.
Between January 2024 and May 2025, the top three crime hotspots in Lagos were Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Lekki. Pedro also raised concerns about overcrowding in the state’s correctional facilities, noting they are currently 106% above their built capacity, with 9,096 inmates held as of May 2025.
Over 10,000 cases and suspects were processed by the system within the last 17 months, with 64% of convictions secured through plea bargains.
Pedro also revealed a demographic insight: suspects from Ogun and Oyo States make up the largest group processed through LCIS outside Lagos, highlighting the cross-state nature of urban criminal activity in the region.
“The LCIS has revolutionized how we manage criminal data and track justice outcomes,” Pedro said. “We are using technology not just for documentation, but also for enhancing investigations, trials, and witness protection.”
The Ministry has even introduced virtual courtrooms to reduce logistical challenges and costs.
Pedro also detailed the efforts of the Ministry’s Directorate for Citizens’ Rights, which received 6,601 petitions over the review period.
Out of these, 4,443 were resolved, while 285 cases were referred to other government agencies. The Ministry also recovered ₦7.3 million on behalf of complainants, with ₦3 million awarded by the courts.
To support Lagosians in navigating the legal system, the Ministry launched the Public Advisory Centre, offering free legal advice and information on accessing justice and government services.
With initiatives like LCIS, Lagos State is setting a new benchmark for transparency and efficiency in criminal justice. By leveraging data and technology, the state is not only enhancing law enforcement and judicial processes but also ensuring citizens have better access to justice and redress.
As Lagos continues to grow, digital innovations like LCIS are proving essential to managing its complex urban challenges—one case at a time.
