Two Lagos bakery workers have been sentenced to community service for stealing loaves of bread.
The state applied restorative justice, favoring reconciliation and reform over prosecution to ease prison overcrowding.
Two bakery employees in Lagos have been sentenced to two weeks of community service after being accused of stealing five loaves of bread from their workplace.
The Lagos State Ministry of Justice announced on Monday, September 8, 2025, that the punishment was secured through its Restorative Justice Centre (RJC), working in collaboration with the Non-Custodial/Community Service Centre. The approach was adopted in place of formal prosecution, aligning with the state government’s ongoing reforms to reduce prison overcrowding.
According to the Ministry, the bakery owner had initially demanded that the workers be taken to court. However, under a special screening process at the Magistrates’ Courts, a District Prosecutor reviewed the case and redirected it to the Restorative Justice Centre instead of pursuing charges.
During mediation sessions, both parties reached an agreement for the offenders to serve two weeks of community service. The sentence took effect immediately.
The Ministry explained that the decision reflects a broader effort to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and accountability in addressing minor offences. It also highlighted the effectiveness of restorative justice as a tool for resolving disputes while ensuring fairness to victims and offenders alike.
