Two bakery workers sentenced for stealing five loaves of bread in Lagos – Photos

Two bakery workers in Lagos have been sentenced to two weeks of community service after being found guilty of stealing five loaves of bread from their employer. The case, which could have led to prosecution, was resolved through the Lagos State Ministry of Justice’s Restorative Justice Centre (RJC) in partnership with the Non-Custodial/Community Service Centre.

According to the Ministry, the employer had insisted the matter be taken to court. However, under the Ministry’s new sifting process at Magistrate Courts, a district prosecutor reviewed the complaint and directed the case to the Restorative Justice Centre instead of filing formal charges.

At the Centre, both parties engaged in mediation and eventually reached an agreement. The workers accepted responsibility and were handed a two-week community service sentence, which they began serving immediately.

The Ministry of Justice said the outcome reflects its ongoing commitment to decongest correctional centres while promoting accountability, reconciliation, and fair outcomes in minor offences.

Officials added that the case is another example of how restorative justice can replace lengthy and costly trials with solutions that encourage reform and rehabilitation.