The role of the Freedom of Information Act (2011) in enhancing public accountability in Nigeria

Abstract

Access to information has been recognized as a powerful mechanism of accountability that lifts shrouds off government transactions. In Nigeria, the Freedom of Information Act was enacted in 2011 ostensibly to guarantee citizens’ right to public information and enhance transparency and accountability in governance.  This discourse examines the role of the Freedom of Information (FoI) Act in enhancing public accountability in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. The study which is analytical and relies on secondary found out that the FoI Act has indeed emboldened the citizens to demand accountability from government officials and it has been used as a tool to expose corruption in the public sector. Among other recommendations, it is suggested that existing extant laws that have conflicted with the enforcement of the FoI Act such as the Official Secrets be repealed. The Legal Aid Council should be mandated to assist litigants in prosecuting cases that may arise in the event of refusal of a government institution’s reluctance to disclose information which may warrant court action.