From Godwin Tsa, Abuja
The Federal High Court has established Freedom of Information Desk as part of concerted efforts to uphold transparency, promote accountability, and enhance public access to information.
A statement by the Director of Information of the Court, Mrs Catherine Oby Christopher, explained that the step is in line with the commitment of the Court not to keep anybody or organisation in the dark on its day to day activities.
The Information/FOI Desk, she said, was created to serve as a central point for receiving inquiries from journalists and members of the public; submitting letters, formal FOI requests, and related correspondences.
According to the statement, the Desk will also serve as a veritable platform of providing guidance on accessing public records and information in line with the Freedom of Information Act.
Located at the Federal High Court Headquarters in Abuja, the Desk is fully staffed with trained personnel to assist individuals and organisations seeking information about the Court’s activities, decisions and operations, while ensuring compliance with legal and procedural requirements.
The statement further indicated that the initiative reflects the Court’s ongoing efforts to foster open communication, support the constitutional right to information.
She advised those seeking information about the court to always visit the Information/FOI Desk during official working hours.
She said the desk would also ensure compliance with legal and procedural requirements in accessing information.
“This initiative reflects the court’s ongoing efforts to foster open communication and support the constitutional right to information.
“For further information, please visit the Information/FOI Desk at the Federal High Court Headquarters during official working hours from 8:00am to 4:00pm, or contact us via email at [email protected] or phone 09160005854.”
The FoI Act, passed in 2011, grants citizens a legally enforceable right to access information held by public institutions, including government ministries , agencies and bodies performing public functions.
The Act aims to promote transparency, accountability, and public participation in government.