The Lagos State government has reaffirmed its commitment to making legal information more accessible by translating state laws into Yoruba.
According to the state government, the initiative aims to bridge the language barrier that prevents many residents from fully understanding their legal rights and responsibilities.
The announcement was made yesterday at the Stakeholders’ Meeting organised by the Lagos State Law Reform Commission (LAWRECOM) in collaboration with the Bureau of Statistics, Ministry of Economic Planning and Budget.
The meeting, held at the STO Resource Centre, Debt Management Office, Ikeja, focused on the findings of the 2024 People’s Perception Survey on translating state laws into Yoruba.
Speaking at the event, LAWRECOM Secretary Oluyemisi Adefoluke Ogunlola, emphasised that Lagos, with a population exceeding 25 million, is predominantly Yoruba-speaking.
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She noted that having state laws codified solely in English creates challenges for many residents, particularly those in the informal sector, where Yoruba is the primary language of communication.
“Our legal system has traditionally been in English, making it difficult for many citizens to fully comprehend legal texts. Translating the laws will enhance voluntary compliance, business transparency, and civic engagement,” Ogunlola stated.
She further explained that 82 per cent of Lagosians work in the informal sector, where legal misunderstandings often lead to business disputes and governance challenges.
By translating laws into Yoruba, Ogunlola believes the government will democratize legal information, improve public awareness, and encourage civic participation.
Also, Adejoke Deborah Olajide, Yoruba Consultant to the Lagos State House of Assembly, highlighted that this initiative is not just about accessibility but also about preserving and modernizing the Yoruba language.
She stressed that incorporating legal terminology into Yoruba would enrich the language, making it relevant in contemporary governance and legal discussions.
“The translation of laws into Yoruba will promote accountability, respect for the rule of law, and empower marginalized groups, such as women, artisans, traders, and the elderly, who predominantly communicate in Yoruba,” she added.
Olajide also pointed to the newly approved National Language Policy, which recognises indigenous languages as essential for effective communication and cultural preservation.
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She stressed that ignorance of the law is no excuse, making translation a crucial step in ensuring widespread legal understanding.
Additionally, Bodurin Mendes, Assistant Secretary-General of the Lagos State Community Development Advisory Council, described the initiative as a milestone that will foster grassroots development.
He noted that findings from the 2024 People’s Perception Survey revealed strong public support for translating state laws, reinforcing the government’s democratic approach to policy-making.
“The Lagos State Government has set a commendable precedent by seeking public opinion rather than imposing the translation of laws,” Mendes stated.
He urged community leaders and stakeholders to intensify efforts in sensitizing the public about the benefits of this initiative.
