The Freedom of Information Act (FOI Act) is more than just a tool for asking questions — it’s a powerful law that protects your right to receive truthful information from public institutions.
In a democratic society like Nigeria, access to public records is not a privilege — it’s a guaranteed right. Whether you’re a private citizen, journalist, or advocacy group, the FOI Act ensures your request is backed by law. Let’s break down the key rights and protections the Act gives you. See Who Can Use the Freedom of Information Act in Nigeria? Your Rights Explained
Your Legal Rights Under the Freedom Of Information Act
The Right to Request Information from Public Institutions
Every Nigerian has the right to ask for any information held by public institutions, including:
- Government ministries & agencies,
- State-owned companies,
- Public service bodies, and
- Any organization funded by public money.
You can request information on budgets, contracts, decisions, environmental issues, public health, and more.
The Right to Receive a Response Within 7 Days
Once your request is submitted, the government agency is legally bound to reply within 7 working days.
They can either:
- Provide the information,
- Deny the request with valid legal reasons, or
- Ask for an extension (if the request is unusually complex).
If the agency fails to respond or delays unjustly, you have the right to take legal action.
Right to Seek Judicial Review
If your request is ignored, denied unfairly, or you suspect the agency is concealing information, the FOI Act empowers you to:
- Challenge the denial in court, and
- Demand that the information be released if the denial isn’t lawful.
This guarantees the government cannot silence you or stonewall your request without legal consequences.
Your Right to Information Without Discrimination
FOI Act doesn’t require you to explain your reason for the request, and the agency cannot discriminate against:
- Your political views,
- Your professional status (journalist, student, activist, etc.), or
- Your personal opinions.
Information belongs to the public — not just to those in power.
Protections for Information Seekers
While the FOI Act empowers citizens, it also protects them from retaliation, discrimination, or intimidation.
Protection Against Victimization
It is unlawful for a government agency or any of its staff to harass or punish you for exercising your right to request information.
If you face threats or harassment for filing a request, you can report the matter to the courts or a human rights organization.
Whistleblower Support
While the FOI Act mainly serves those requesting information, it also indirectly protects public employees who disclose wrongdoings (aka whistleblowers) under separate legal protections like the Whistleblower Protection Policy.
This ensures that both the seeker and the source of information are protected when exposing corruption or misuse of power.
Exceptions: When Can a Request Be Denied?
While the FOI Act promotes transparency, it also recognizes national security and personal privacy. Valid reasons for denial include:
- National security concerns,
- Protection of confidential personal data,
- Ongoing law enforcement investigations, and
- Commercially sensitive information in public-private partnerships.
But even in these cases, the agency must explain why your request was denied.
Conclusion: Knowledge is a Protected Right
The Freedom of Information Act isn’t just a piece of paper — it’s a shield and a sword for any Nigerian seeking truth and accountability.
Whether you are holding leaders accountable, fact-checking news, or tracking how public funds are spent, you are protected under the law to ask for — and receive — public information.
