At Last, Jonathan Signs FOI Bill Into Law

Vanguard

1 June 2011

At Last, Jonathan Signs FOI Bill Into Law

Abuja — President Goodluck Jonathan has after several tortures attempts, finally signed into law, the Freedom of Information Bill, FoI, as promised. The signing of the bill into law raises Nigeria's integrity in the comity of nations. Meanwhile, notable Nigerians and groups have applauded the President for signing the bill into law.

A Deputy Director of Information in the Office of the Special Adviser, Mr. Justus Abuah, in a statement, in Abuja, yesterday, said, "President Jonathan has signed the Freedom of Information Bill, 2011 into law. The bill, which was passed by the outgoing National Assembly, was conveyed to the Presidency on Friday, May 27, 2011. President Jonathan assented to it on Saturday, May 28."

"The objective of the Act is to make public records and information more freely available and to also protect public records and information to the extent consistent with the public interest and the protection of personal privacy.

"The Freedom of Information Act also seeks to protect serving public officers from any adverse consequences of disclosing certain kinds of official information without authorization, and to establish procedures for the achievement of these purposes", the statement said.