The Lagos State Director of National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mr Waheed Ishola has said those who hoard information to the public would be held liable if found wanting.
Addressing stakeholders on the importance of the Freedom of Information Acts (FoIA) in various communities across the state, he said public officers must render account when called upon.
Ishola said: “The FoIA is very important; it is a form of social auditing of our leadership unlike before when people elected into office failed to account for their stewardship.
“They are expected to disclose their activities to the people. The FoIA is now empowering individuals and organisations to call to question, their leaders, in terms of projects executed and how government is being run.”
He added that government agencies or individuals that take contract from government or have anything to do with the government must render the necessary information when demanded.
He stated that when information is requested in written form, the response has to be given within seven days or an explanation as to why that information could not be given within the stipulated period.
“There are non-governmental organisations that are ready provide pro-rata services to people who may not be able to meet the cost of litigation against the organisations that fail to provide the information,” he said.
He warned that people should not just embark on frivolous accusations and not for the sake of witch-hunt, adding: “We have had cases when contractors have shortchanged government; where projected money has been paid but projects were not executed. We have seen where money was collected for four kilometers of road but only two were executed by the contractor. Where people observe this anomally, they should complain.”
