Lagos Govt Sensitises Igbogbo/Baiyeku Residents on Newly Enacted Laws

Lagos Govt Sensitises Igbogbo/Baiyeku Residents on Newly Enacted Laws

The Lagos State Government has intensified efforts to promote civic awareness and participatory governance at the grassroots with the hosting of an Awareness and Sensitisation Programme on newly enacted laws in Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA).

The programme, organised by the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, held on Tuesday, January 20, aimed at educating residents on their legal rights, protections and civic responsibilities, while encouraging active citizen participation in governance.

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Engr. Sholabomi Shasore, who delivered the welcome address on behalf of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, stressed that public understanding of laws is fundamental to good governance. She noted that laws are most effective when citizens are well-informed and empowered to engage constructively with government institutions, thereby promoting accountability, social order and inclusive development.

Representing the Executive Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku LCDA, the Chief of Staff, Hon. Wasiu Olowu, commended the state government for the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful. He said the sensitisation would deepen residents’ understanding of their civic duties and legal rights, and called for the programme to be institutionalised and held at least twice yearly to sustain public enlightenment within the community.

Participants were further enlightened through presentations by officials of key state agencies. The Director of the Citizens’ Mediation Bureau (CMB), Ikorodu Division, Barr. Abosede Olaleye, educated residents on alternative dispute resolution mechanisms and citizens’ rights, while highlighting the Bureau’s free mediation services. She also informed attendees that the CMB office is located on Oreyo Road, beside the Stadium in Ikorodu.

In a goodwill message, Mrs. Folashade Ashaye, representing the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA), spoke on consumer protection laws, the operations of the Consumer Court, and plans by the agency to establish offices across all local government areas to improve service delivery.

Also speaking, the Deputy Director of the Lagos State Law Reform Commission, Mr. Kehinde David, delivered an expert presentation on laws regulating organ donation and related practices. He cited relevant legal provisions to clarify misconceptions and emphasised the state’s commitment to ethical standards and public safety.

An interactive session at the programme encouraged residents to utilise town hall budget meetings and the Citizens’ Gate platform to promote transparency, civic engagement and effective complaint resolution, reinforcing the role of citizens as active partners in governance.

The programme opened with prayers led by Pastor Samson and Imam Kamaldeen and concluded with a vote of thanks by the Director (Legislative) in the Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Mr. Azeez Subair.

The event attracted key stakeholders, including the CDC Chairman of Igbogbo/Baiyeku, Alhaji Rasak Ibiyeye; Alhaja Kaolat, representing the Iyaloja of Igbogbo/Baiyeku; leaders of various Community Development Associations (CDAs), and other community representatives, underscoring strong community support for civic education initiatives.