FOI ACT: NO MORE HIDING PLACE FOR KWARA STATE GOVERNMENT
The recent Supreme Court judgment upholding the applicability of the federal transparency law to states is a welcome development for residents of Kwara State, notorious for its secretive operations.
In a statement personally signed by Professor Ali Ahmad, he lauded the Supreme Court’s decision in Osakue v EDOSACA on the Freedom of Information Act, delivered last Friday.
The Freedom of Information (FOI) Act, which was enacted by the National Assembly in 2011, is not only applicable to federal government agencies but is also binding on all states within the Federal Republic of Nigeria. State governments are required to comply with the provisions of the Act, ensuring that public records are accessible to citizens, and fostering an environment of transparency and accountability in governance.”
“This is not just a legal milestone—it is a validation of years-long struggle by accountability champions and a call to action for all who believe in transparent governance.” He declared.
Despite the 8th Kwara State House of Assembly passing the Bill and sending it to Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for assent, the 9th Assembly and the Governor thwarted its implementation.
The Kwara State Government can no longer hide behind secrecy. Citizens can now demand transparency and accountability through the courts if necessary.
On the implication of the law for Kwara State, Professor Ahmad stated.
“For nearly six years, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq refused to sign the FOI Bill into law. The law obligates government functionaries to provide records and vouchers, for example, of payments on Tanke bridge, trader money, N17 billion Kwara Hotel renovation and many others. The path to accountability is now legally and morally clear. They never expected it, but the law has caught up with those running away from transparency and accountability.”
Professor Ahmad commended tenacity of transparency organisations such as the Elites Network for Sustainable Development (ENetSuD), suggesting that they can now achieve their aim of ensuring that public funds are spent for the public good.
” Do not expect voluntary compliance with the law from the Kwara State Government. But you can always approach the courts for enforcement. ” Professor Ahmad admonished.
Professor Ahmad congratulates Kwarans and all lovers of open governance across Nigeria.
Signed:
Sa’ad Ayinde
Media Assistant
Prof. Ali Ahmad
Former Speaker, Kwara State House of Assembly