The Freedom of Information Act 2011
14 years ago, Nigeria affirmed the right of citizens to know with the passage of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act 2011—a cornerstone of open governance and democratic accountability.
The Freedom of Information Act 2011 was passed by the National Assembly on 24th May 2011 and assented by President Goodluck Jonathan on 28th May, 2011.
As we commemorate 14 years of the FOI Act, IRIAD is highlighting 14 actions needed to improve its implementation.
The recent controversy in Kwara State, where a proposed bill for adoption in the state violates the provisions of the Federal FOI Act. Section 31(1) mandates that no information shall be released by any Ministry, Department, or Agency without the prior written consent of the Governor. Section 31(2) further protects officials from liability if delays occur due to waiting for the Governor’s consent. This clause effectively places a political gatekeeper between citizens and public information, undermining transparency and contradicting the federal FOI Act, which does not require such governorship approval. This is a reminder that the fight for transparency is far from over.
It is time to renew our collective commitment to an open, informed, and participatory democracy.
