Details

The Freedom of Information Act is one of the very important laws of Nigeria and one of the pillars to uphold the rights of the electorate to be informed about what is being done by the Legislature, the Executive and other Institutions. Konrad-Adenauer-Foundation partnered with Community Policing Partners to hold this workshop in order to broaden the knowledge base of citizens on the FOY Act.

A presentation was made by Prof. Abubakar Muazu, Department of Mass Communication University of Maiduguri, Borno State and a Panel Discussion took place with the Chief Magistrate Idem Udosen Phd. (from a Legal Perspective), Ms Ann Iyonu (Civil Society Perspective) from the Institute for the Study of War and Peace and Elder Patrick Albert, (Media Perspective)who is the Chairman Nigeria Union of Journalist Akwa Ibom State

It was noted that the Law is now five years old and sadly not a lot of compliance has been recorded so far. The FOI Act is not the only legislation that mandates access to information in Nigeria however, the FOI Act consolidates the right to information for the public.

Its power lies in the effectiveness of the implementation of the Act, which would require commitment from various stakeholders, including government, civil society, and the citizens themselves.

According to the FOI act, the Nigerian Public service is expected to create, keep, organize and maintain records of all daily activity in such a manner that facilitates the public’s right to know. For example, Section 2(1) & (2) 9 (1) & (2) enhances productivity, effectiveness and efficiency, such as providing an empirical basis that aids in long-term strategic planning and evaluation of government processes.

The FOI Act promotes transparency, efficiency and effectiveness in budgeting and implementation processes, policy formulation and appropriations and evaluations. Had the FOI bill been followed, the issue of padded or not padded budget which was experienced recently wouldn't have arisen. Through this law that is binding on all states, the promotion of public participation, which builds public faith and established legitimacy, is encouraged.

Unfortunately, some states have not recognized the law, it is claimed that the FOI act is a Federal bill and does not apply to them. However, the law applies to government at all levels since it is a law governing the federation.

The workshop was closed after interactive sessions between the resource persons and the participants.