Mrs Otemuyiwa Enlightens Corps Members On FOIA

 

The Desk officer for the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), NYSC Osun State Mrs Catherine Otemuyiwa has enlightened the 2021 Batch A Stream ll Corps Members on FOIA.

While addressing the Corps Members at the Multipurpose hall of the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp Ede, on Thursday she explained that FOIA is the Act that grants access to public information and records.

 She explained that the bill which was signed into law in May 28, 2011 by the then President, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan was in place to grant every citizen access to government documents as it relates to public affairs and funds.

 According to her, FOIA makes public records available and gives people access to these records which promotes proactive disclosure, transparency and accountability.

 Again, it protects records and the rights of whistle blowers, covers every public institution and ensures transparency in government through record keeping, smooth stakeholders relations management and accountability in public service.

Mrs Otemuyiwa added that anybody can apply for the records of government institution and that such is made available within seven days upon request and can be extended for a maximum of another seven days but with a cogent reason and with the full approval of the applicant. She added that non disclosure of disclosable information upon request is liable to a fine of 500,000. She therefore stressed on the need for Corps members to be courageous enough to join in the fight against corruption by demanding transparency and accountability on the platform of the Freedom of Information Act.

Speaking on its scope, she stated that FOIA applies to all the three tiers of government as well as bodies, private organizations, among others that are funded fully or partly by government, expend public funds or render public service. She added that the Act has brought about more citizens participation in governance, built trust and encouraged a smooth stakeholders relationship.

However, she stated that exceptions exist as regards the Act inorder to protect privacy and security of individuals and the national interest.

While concluding her address, Mrs Otemuyiwa encouraged corps members to develop the habit of keeping records and as well create it as a point of duty to create awareness of the existence of the FOIA law at their respective PPAs by organizing seminars, debates in schools and also making their presence known.