Frontage of the Supreme Court of Nigeria
Recently, the Supreme Court’s judgment has affirmed that the FOI Act is a statute of general application across the federation. It does not require domestication by the State Assembly.
This landmark lead judgment of Hon. Justice Lawal Garba JSC dismantles the long-held excuse by some states for refusing to comply with FOIA provisions due to the absence of corresponding state laws. With the Supreme Court’s pronouncement, state governments can no longer deny access to public records on the grounds of legislative non-alignment.
As the decision reverberates across the country, it sets a powerful precedent for civil society, journalists, and ordinary citizens alike—ensuring that the quest for an open and accountable government does not stop at the gates of federal institutions.
The Supreme Court’s decision has emboldened citizens to demand accountability for ALL expenditures and appropriations at the Federal, State, and Local Government Areas.
