The claims made by ICIR regarding NICO are inaccurate and deceptive.
By Abayomi Odunowo 13th August 2024.
I recently came across a publication that left me shocked and disappointed. It detailed an incident where an individual, whose identity remains unknown, visited the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO) in Nigeria and requested ten years worth of documentation without providing any specific reference or confirming the authenticity of their organization. Despite lacking crucial information, the team at NICO cooperated with the individual as required by law. However, things took a turn for the worse when the executive secretary of NICO, who was trying to clarify the purpose of the request, was met with silence and subsequently faced false accusations of withholding information.
The incident raises important questions about the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill and the responsibilities that come with it. The FOI principle is founded upon the belief that individuals have the right to access information held by public authorities, promoting accountability and transparency within the government. This right allows citizens to scrutinize government actions and decisions, ensuring that they can hold their leaders accountable and participate in democratic processes effectively.
While the FOI bill grants citizens the right to access information, it does not give them free rein to demand any data they please without providing a valid reason. Requests made under the FOI Act must be specific, with a clear purpose in mind. This is crucial to prevent misuse of the law and to protect the integrity of the information being requested.
In the case of the individual who visited NICO, their request was vague and lacked proper validation. They did not provide any context or reason for needing five years worth of documentation, nor did they confirm the authenticity of their organization. This lack of transparency raises red flags and puts the organization at risk of potential misuse of sensitive information.
The actions of the individual in question also speak to a larger issue of accountability and responsibility. When the executive secretary of NICO attempted to clarify the purpose of the request, they were met with silence and, ultimately, faced false accusations of withholding information. This kind of behavior is not only irresponsible but also reckless, as it can damage the reputation and credibility of an organization that is striving to uphold transparency and integrity.
It is essential for individuals and organizations to act in good faith when making requests under the FOI Act. Transparency and accountability are key principles that guide the proper use of this legislation, and it is crucial that these values are upheld to safeguard the democratic process and protect the public interest.
The incident at NICO serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of responsible and ethical behavior when engaging with the FOI Act. Requests for information must be made in good faith, with a valid purpose and proper validation. Misuse of the FOI Act not only undermines the principles of transparency and accountability but also jeopardizes the trust between citizens and government institutions. It is imperative that all parties involved adhere to the guiding principles of the FOI Act to ensure the integrity and credibility of the information being requested and shared.
