MEDIATION SUCCESS: LAGOS RJC ENDS LASPA-SUPERMARKET DISPUTE
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The Lagos State Ministry of Justice, through its Restorative Justice Centre (RJC), has resolved a dispute between the Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) and a supermarket located along Badore Road, Ajah.
Recall that in August 2025, LASPA officials were assaulted by the supermarket’s management and other mobilised individuals while enforcing compliance on an expired parking permit. The attack left officers injured and resulted in damage to official devices, including body cameras, telephones, and other enforcement tools. The supermarket was subsequently sealed, and the offenders were charged in court.
Following prompt intervention, legal advice from the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) confirmed a prima facie case of assault causing harm, as well as criminal property damage, contrary to Sections 173 and 339 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State. The case was assessed and considered appropriate for resolution through restorative justice.
During victim–offender mediation sessions facilitated by the Restorative Justice Centre, the offenders expressed remorse, agreed to pay restitution for the damaged items, and settled the medical bills of the injured officers. LASPA, in the same vein, subsequently approved the unsealing of the supermarket, and the signed Terms of Settlement were adopted as a judgment of the court.
This resolution, achieved within three weeks, ensured quick dispensation of justice, restitution to the Agency, and avoidance of custodial sentences, demonstrating the impact of restorative justice in Lagos State.
Speaking on this development, the Director of the Restorative Justice Centre, Ms. Adeshola Bello, reiterated the Centre’s commitment to decongesting the courts and correctional facilities through peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms that ensure justice for both victims and offenders.
“This case exemplifies the practical benefits of restorative justice in addressing offences without overburdening the courts or correctional facilities, while still ensuring that victims receive justice and offenders take responsibility for their actions,” Bello added.
The success of this mediation reflects the Lagos State Government’s continuous effort to strengthen alternative justice mechanisms and promote peaceful dispute resolution across the state.
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