Two bakery workers in Lagos State have been sentenced to two weeks of community service after being found guilty of stealing five loaves of bread from their employer.
The judgement was handed down by a Magistrate Court through the Lagos State Ministry of Justice on Monday, September 8.
How it Happened
According to the statement published on the Lagos State government’s website, the employer had insisted on taking the matter to court. However, the case was reviewed under the Ministry’s sifting process, where a District Prosecutor redirected the matter to the Restorative Justice Centre instead of filing charges.
Following a mediation session, all parties reached an agreement, and the offenders were ordered to perform two weeks of community service, which commenced immediately.
Government’s Position
The Ministry explained that the move was part of ongoing reforms to promote accountability, reconciliation, and non-custodial sentencing for minor offences.
“This resolution highlights the Ministry’s proactive approach to fostering dialogue, reconciliation, and accountability, while demonstrating the effectiveness of restorative justice in resolving minor offences,” the statement read.
Nigerians React
The unusual sentence sparked reactions on social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter). Many Nigerians applauded the Lagos government for adopting a progressive alternative to imprisonment for petty crimes.
@ObankieNoni: “Is washing cars part of community service?”
@SaniAminuMuham4: “This is one of the best ways to treat minor offenses. With this, Lagos will get cleaner. Please reward them with food and water after service.”
@benakede: “Fantastic. I’ve always clamored for this. But community service should also include service beyond government facilities.”
@snipasay: “I think the uniform for offenders should be a proper overall.”
@Dagreatprince: “Commendable, better than congesting the prisons.”
Similar Case in Osun State
In another case of petty theft, a mechanic in Osun State was sentenced to three years in prison for stealing 17 tubers of yam worth ₦35,000. Unlike the Lagos ruling, the Osun case did not receive the benefit of restorative justice, sparking further debate on judicial reforms in Nigeria.
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