Lagos Summit Reveals Crime Hotspots: Lekki, Oshodi, Apapa Lead

The Lagos State Justice Reform Summit, held on Tuesday, revealed significant crime statistics and announced comprehensive reform plans to overhaul the state’s criminal justice system.

Justice Rahman Oshodi of the Lagos High Court presented the findings during the summit organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Justice in Ikeja. According to the Lagos State Criminal Information System, Lekki, Oshodi/Isolo, and Apapa are currently the areas with the highest crime rates in Lagos.

From 2018 to 2024, a total of 62,117 inmates were recorded in the LCIS, with Lekki accounting for 13% of reported cases. Oshodi/Isolo, Apapa, and Ojo each followed with 10%, while Alimosho accounted for 9%, Agege and Ikeja 8% each, Mushin 6%, Lagos Island 5%, and Yaba 4%. Epe, Ajeromi, and Victoria Island were the lowest at 2% each, with Ikoyi slightly higher at 3%.

The data also revealed the state of origin of defendants, with Ogun, Oyo, and Lagos indigenes topping the list. Ogun State led with 17% of total crimes in Lagos, amounting to 5,294 cases. Oyo State followed with 13% (4,090 cases), and Lagos State ranked third with 11% (3,295 cases). States like Kano, Ekiti, Ebonyi, and Abia contributed the least.

Stealing-related offences dominated the criminal court records with 21,084 cases representing 44%. This was followed by breaches of peace with 7,044 cases (15%), armed robbery at 10% (4,518 cases), and sexual crimes at 5% (2,231 cases).

Justice Oshodi’s presentation highlighted several recommendations to enhance the criminal justice system:

1. Strengthening collaboration and data sharing among criminal justice agencies through regular inter-agency meetings, joint training programs, and integrated data management systems.
2. Expanding the use of technology across the criminal justice system, including extending LCIS, BIMS, and OBS coverage, and increasing electronic case filing and management systems adoption.
3. Enhancing capacity building and training for criminal justice professionals, including law enforcement, the judiciary, corrections, and community service.
4. Promoting public awareness and engagement in criminal justice reforms through community forums, media campaigns, and educational initiatives.
5. Institutionalizing the Bondsmen Scheme to enhance the bail process’s efficiency and effectiveness with clear guidelines, standards, and oversight mechanisms.
6. Building additional custodial centers to address overcrowding and improve inmate living conditions.

“These reforms have immense potential benefits, and I am confident we can achieve them holistically and collaboratively,” said Justice Oshodi.