Court orders Ogun govt to reveal details of 45-Year ARISE IIP deal 

By Damiete Braide

A Federal High Court in Abeokuta has ordered the Ogun State Government to disclose full details of its 45-year Public-Private Partnership (PPP) agreement with ARISE Integrated Industrial Platforms (ARISE IIP), marking a significant development in a legal battle over transparency.

The ruling, delivered by Justice Abiodun J. Adeyemi, followed a suit filed by the Naija Lives Matter (NLM) movement, led by its founder, Dr. Ope Banwo, through his counsel, Yemi Salman.

The case stemmed from the state government’s refusal to release documents relating to the Remo Economic Industrial Cluster project in Sagamu, a key initiative tied to the long-term agreement with ARISE IIP.

In its judgment, the court held that the Freedom of Information Act applies to the Ogun State Government and its agencies, affirming that public institutions cannot withhold information on major public contracts without lawful justification.

Those affected by the order include the Ogun State Government, the Ministry of Budget and Planning, the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, and the Office of the Attorney-General.

At the centre of the dispute is the PPP arrangement with ARISE IIP for industrial development in Sagamu, which has faced scrutiny over its structure, financing, and implementation.

Reacting to the ruling, Banwo described it as a victory for public accountability and citizens’ right to information.

“This is about the right of the people to know how a long-term agreement involving public resources was structured. The court has made it clear that such information cannot be hidden,” he said.

He added that the judgment presents an opportunity for the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun to demonstrate its commitment to transparency and the rule of law.

“We believe the government should comply fully with this order. Disobedience is not just a legal issue, it is a matter of public accountability,” Banwo stated.

He also expressed hope that the state would release the requested documents within the 14-day timeline reportedly set by the court.

Naija Lives Matter is seeking disclosure of key documents, including the full PPP agreement, details of investors, funding structure, land allocation, procurement process, environmental impact assessments, and internal approvals.

Observers say the ruling could have broader implications for transparency in public-private partnerships across Nigeria, particularly those involving long-term commitments and significant public resources.