175 MDAs flout FOI request in 2023 - Report
A recent transparency ranking reveals that a significant majority of Nigerian federal government agencies are failing to respond to Freedom of Information Act requests. The data indicates a troubling decline in institutional responsiveness compared to previous years, with numerous ministries and departments offering no reply despite legal mandates. This widespread non-compliance highlights a systemic gap in accountability, preventing citizens from accessing crucial details about government activities and public spending, thereby undermining the core purpose of the legislation. The analysis identifies several structural barriers contributing to this opacity, including resource constraints, outdated information systems, and a lack of technical proficiency among staff. Conversely, a small number of institutions demonstrated high compliance by actively disclosing information and swiftly addressing requests. The findings suggest that shifting toward electronic communication and online dissemination of data is not merely a convenience but a necessary solution to reduce administrative bottlenecks and ensure consistent access to public records for all citizens. This situation is highly relevant to open data advocates as it illustrates the critical difference between passive availability and proactive transparency. The article underscores that true open governance requires institutions to actively publish information via digital platforms rather than waiting for individual requests. By embracing technology and proactive disclosure, government bodies can significantly enhance accountability, foster citizen participation, and improve public service delivery, moving Nigeria closer to genuine open government standards.
Source: punchng.comPublished on 2023-09-27