The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department Annex, Lagos, AIG Simeon U. Akpanudom, led his leadership team on a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, to deepen collaboration on criminal investigations, prosecution and justice delivery in the state. AIG Akpanudom noted the longstanding working relationship with the Ministry of Justice, particularly through the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, and stressed that sustained cooperation is vital for improving security, promoting economic development and building public trust in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji R. Disu. He also called for timely legal advice, enhanced forensic support, better interview facilities under the ACJA, and proposed a joint training programme for investigators and prosecutors.
Welcoming the delegation, the Attorney-General described the relationship between the Ministry and the Police as cordial and robust, adding that quality investigation remains the foundation of successful prosecution and crime reduction. Mr. Pedro backed the proposal for joint capacity building and urged FCID officers to maintain close engagement for legal guidance and prosecutorial support. He disclosed that the Lagos State Forensic Laboratory is nearing completion and will soon be operational, while an electronic case management system for tracking offenders and prosecutions is already in place, with plans to extend aspects of it to the FCID Annex Lagos. He also clarified that while genuine civil land disputes are not criminal matters, offences such as land grabbing, fraud and forgery fall within police jurisdiction.
The Solicitor General and Permanent Secretary, Mr. E. O. Akande, expressed confidence that the strengthened partnership would further enhance justice delivery in Lagos State. The visit concluded with the exchange of commemorative plaques between the AIG and the Attorney-General as a symbol of the enduring commitment of both institutions to promoting justice, security and the rule of law.
