FACULTY OF LAW
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Item Freedom of information act: a paradigm shift in press Freedom in Nigeria?(2013) Onakoya, O. O.Freedom of expression and the press had since 1979 been introduced into the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria particularly under Chapter IV of the constitution captioned ‘Fundamental Rights’. This right of expression and free press, particularly as provided for in section 39(1) of the constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) confers on everyone freedom of expression, which includes freedom to hold opinions and to receive and impart ideas and information without interference. However, inspite of the aforestated constitutional provisions and other similar enactments, access to information, particularly public records by members of the public in general and the press in particular has remained a mirage. It is against this backdrop that this paper examines the impact of the Freedom of Information Act, 2011 (which was enacted into law after its prolonged setback and delays) on press rights of unfettered access to information. This paper further examines among other things, the extent to which FOI Act 2011 had been implemented, the challenges confronting its applicability as well as the prospects of the Act in the nearest future. Likely means of improving its effective implementation/enforceability are also suggested.Item The relevance of public complaints commission to Nigeria economic development.(2012) Aina, K.The paper critically examines the statutory provisions on the Public Complaint Commission (hereinafter called the Commission), and make appropriate suggestions for reform. The Public Complaints Commission is a statutory creation with wide powers of inquiry and investigation: it has wide powers to receive complaints from members of the public against maladministration and misuse of administrative machinery by any public authority and companies or their officials. In Nigeria like other developing countries, the use of administrative power by officers of government and their institutions to oppress, victimize and discriminate against the citizenry is quite common and rampant. The use of administrative powers to flagrantly abuse the citizen's human rights and freedom is also a common occurrence. Thus, there is the need for government to intervene and take definite action to stem this problem that is gradually embarrassing the government, which led to the promulgation of the Public Complaints Commission Decree 311 (now ACT)2 of 1975.