News
Nigerians Have Legal Rights To Challenge Lapses In FOI Act, Says Speaker
He reiterate that citizens must hold their leaders accountable, as they operate under the mandate of the people
Abuja, Nigeria– The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, has urged citizens to exercise their legal rights to challenge any shortcomings in the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act.
Speaking at a national workshop and book presentation organized by the Committee on FOI in collaboration with Rebirth for Media Liberation and Development Initiative, Abass emphasized the importance of the law in ensuring government accountability.
The FOI Act, enacted on May 28, 2011, grants citizens the right to access information held by public officials, agencies, and institutions.
The theme of the workshop, “FOI and the Burden of Access for National Economic Development: The Legislative Renewed Hope Agenda,” highlighted the critical role the act plays in fostering transparency.
Represented by Rep. Alhassan Doguwa, Chairman of the House Committee on Upstream Petroleum, Abass noted that despite the establishment of the FOI Act, awareness and implementation have been limited within governance structures.
He asserted that knowledge of the act must be increased to empower citizens fully.
Jigawa State Governor Malam Umar Namadi echoed this sentiment, underscoring the responsibility of officials to provide requested information and engage citizens in decision-making processes.
He reiterate that citizens must hold their leaders accountable, as they operate under the mandate of the people.
Sa’idu Miga, Chairman of the House Committee on FOI Act, emphasized the impact of the FOI Act on national economic development, advocating for a more transparent governance system.
Engr. Bala Musa, National Chairman of Rebirth for Media Organisation, called for greater government openness, encouraging citizens to actively participate in governance and to demand accountability from their political leaders.
