A promise of freedom by Jimi Agbaje for all Lagosian during the campaign
I have always maintained that as Governor, I will lead by example. If we're ever going to be able to fight corruption, nepotism and over-burdening influence of vested interests which has plagued Lagos, it is important that we make ourselves accountable.
It is in this spirit that i announced my intention to domesticate the 2011 freedom of information Act. This will ensure that there is proactive disclosure of information from Government. it puts power in the hands of average citizen and allows to have a greater state in how government is run.
This is definitely a break away from the past as the current Lagos State government has consistently refused to implement this. It is a bold step, and more importantly, an imperative step that we to take, if we're truly serious about fighting this scourge of corruption.
Freedom of information Act gives every citizen a right of Access to information, records and documents held by Federal Government entities and private bodies,carries out public functions. The acts encourage states Domestication so it would apply at the state level in order to encourage honesty in governance.
The current Lagos State APC Government has consistently refused to do this, thereby hindering Transparency and Accountability in the affairs of the state.
In order to ensure Transparency in my Government, and to create a legal footing for the war against corruption, I shall send to the Lagos State Assembly, a bill domesticating the 2011 Freedom of Information Act.
Once it becomes law, it shall ensure that there is proactive disclosure of information from Government, i will also set up a central clearing house for all requests to ensure its proper and timely implementation.
I shall, as Lagos State Governor,side with the people of a Lagos in believing that their elected official- myself included, should be held accountable. And this bill shall act as a tool, the first as many, that the people will be able to use to legally do so.
