Lagos State has taken a decisive step to combat illegal organ harvesting with the signing of the Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Bill into law. The announcement was made on Thursday by the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro (SAN), during a media briefing in Ikeja.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu signed the bill, alongside four other significant laws, to underscore his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare and security of residents in the state.
The other laws include the Consumer Protection Law, Lagos Enforcement Training Institute Law, Victims Assistance and Witness Protection Law, and Fire and Rescue Service Law.
He said, “These laws are not just milestones in the state’s legislative journey; they demonstrate our unwavering commitment to ensuring that Lagos remains a beacon of progress, justice, and opportunity in Nigeria.
“As a government, our priorities have always been to address the immediate needs of our citizens, protect their rights, and ensure their safety, health, and prosperity.
“In this regard, the recently signed laws cover some critical areas of public welfare, human rights, safety, and environmental sustainability.
“These laws have been thoughtfully designed to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing our state while paving the way for a more just, secure, and prosperous future for all residents of Lagos.”
The Human Organ and Tissue Transplantation Law introduces strict measures against illegal organ trade and unethical medical practices.
It prohibits organ harvesting without proper authorization and bans advertisements for organ sales. Offenders face severe penalties, including fines up to ₦10 million or imprisonment for up to 10 years.
Similarly, the Consumer Protection Law empowers Lagosians to hold businesses accountable for hazardous products. Violators could face hefty fines and imprisonment, ensuring consumer rights are upheld in the bustling commercial hub of Lagos.
