ARTICLE SUMMARY
| Title: | Assessing Challenges in the Implementation of Freedom of Information Act in South-East Nigeria |
| Author(s): | Nwankwo Boniface Nwankwo, Agatha Obiageri Orji-Egwu, Samuel Chukwuemeka Nwamini & Simon Ugochukwu Nw |
| Abstract: | This study examined the Challenges in the Implementation of Freedom of Information Act in South-East Nigeria. The research focused on the five South-East States of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo and it evaluated the challenges in the implementation of Freedom of Information Act in South-East Zone. The research objectives include: to ascertain the awareness level of South-East Journalists on the provisions of FOIA; to determine the constraints in accessing information in agencies and institutions of government resulting in poor implementation; and to find out alternative ways the provisions of the Act could be better implemented for easy access to information. The Social Responsibility theory was used while the survey method was adopted. The questionnaire was used as the research instrument. The sample size of 385 out of 1450 practicing Journalists in the Zone was generated from the Australian Calculator. The study found out that a good number of respondents were not conversant with the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act and bureaucracy, poor record keeping, inadequate knowledge of the provisions of the Act, corruption, and lack of enforcement are some of the factors inhibiting the implementation of FOIA. It was also found that there is poor public attitude towards openness, transparency and accountability due to narrow mindsets in doing government business under confidentiality. Based on the findings, the study recommended mass enlightenment for public knowledge and understanding of FOIA beyond mere awareness, good record keeping and repeal of some laws conflicting with the provisions of the Act. |
| Keywords: | Challenges, Freedom of Information, FOIA, South-East, Information |
Editorial Board
EDITOR-IN CHIEF
Prof. Jonathan E. Aliede
DEPUTY EDITOR-IN CHIEF
Agatha Obiageri Orji-Egwu, Ph.D
MANAGING EDITOR
SÃmon Ugochukwu Nwankwo, Ph.D
EDITORS
Prof. Ifeyinwa Nsude
Prof. Angela Nwanmuo
Prof. Tyotom Keghku
Prof. Muyiwa Poopola
Prof. Nnanyelugo Okoro
Prof L. I. Ogbuoshi
Ruth. Chika Okorie, Ph.D
Adeola Sidikat Oyrleke, Ph.D
Celestine Ukeoma, Ph.D