FOIA SEEKS TO ACHIEVE TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY- Otemuyiwa

The Desk Officer for Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) NYSC Osun State, Mrs Catherine Otemuyiwa has enlightened the 2021 Batch C Stream II corps members on FOIA and the FOIA Vanguard.

While enlightening the corps members on Wednesday at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp Ede, she explained that the Freedom of Information Act 2011 is a weapon given to the common man by law to fight corruption and secrecy in public institutions and has over the years made information more readily accessible  to the people. 

The Freedom of Information Act was signed into law on the 28th of May 2011 by former President of Nigeria, (Dr) Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.

Stressing on the importance and objectives of FOIA, she said it makes public records available to everyone and also bring about transparency, openness, accountability in governance, proactive disclosure of information, citizens participation, amongst others.

She added that FOIA strikes balance on information to be released and those to be protected in order to protect the rights of individuals and public institutions in consonance with public interest. She stated that protected information are covered under the exemptions in FOIA.

Furthermore, she said FOIA is a civil tool used in fighting corruption in all government sectors, both public and private institutions. She stated that the scope of FOIA covers all aspects and the three tiers of government. "Private institutions that render public services, or expend public funds, are equally captured under FOIA" she added.

Otemuyiwa said the Attorney General's office collaborated with NYSC to create greater awareness of the Act. 

In conclusion, she implore all Corps Members to join FOIA VANGUARD in their respective PPA in other to promote the FOIA.