Freedom of Information: A Practical Guide For Nigerians

Book excerpt: On the 27th of May 2011, Nigeria Freedom of Information Bill was sent to Nigeria President, His Excellency Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, who subsequently assented to it in 24 hours; thereby ending a long, tortuous journey that started on December 9, 1999 when it was first gazetted. It was the oldest legislation in the works in Nigeria's legislative history. Today, the Freedom of Information Act 2011 gives every Nigerian the right to request for information from a public institution. You don't have to explain why you need the information and you can even go to court to compel the institutions to comply. Can Nigeria public institution deliver this immense task? Will the Act help to reduce corruption? Can pressure groups use this new law to ensure transparency and dividends of democracy? This book provides the necessary guide on how to apply the new FOI Act...