THE Freedom of Information (FOI) Counsel and Rural Development Information and Legal Advocacy Centre (RUDILAC) have called on the Edo State Judiciary to issue practice directions to facilitate the effective implementation of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) in the state.
This call was made by President Aigbokhan, Esq, Lead, FOI Counsel/RUDILAC, during a meeting with the Chief Judge of Edo State.
According to Aigbokhan, the practice directions would provide clarity on the procedures for filing FOIA-related cases, reduce filing fees, protect whistleblowers, and ensure that public institutions comply with the law, _Standard Daily Press_ has been briefed.
He cited the landmark case of Austin Osakue & 9 Ors v. Edo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (EDOSACA), which established the applicability of the FOIA to state agencies.
The FOI Counsel/RUDILAC believes that issuing practice directions would simplify the process of accessing information, reduce litigation costs, and promote transparency and accountability in governance.
They have offered to assist the High Court of Edo State in drafting a model practice direction adapted to the needs of Edo State and consistent with the FOIA.
Key Points:
– FOIA Implementation: The FOIA has been in existence since 2011, but its implementation has been hindered by bureaucratic bottlenecks and lack of awareness.
– Landmark Case: The Supreme Court’s judgment in the EDOSACA case affirmed the applicability of the FOIA to state agencies.
– Practice Directions: The proposed practice directions would provide clarity on procedures, reduce filing fees, and protect whistleblowers.
– Benefits: Effective implementation of the FOIA would promote transparency, accountability, and good governance in Edo State.
