The International Principles on Access to Information An Assessment of the Compliancy of the Laws of Nigeria, South Africa and Ghana

Abstract

Access to information is increasingly recognized globally and regionally as a topical subject. An effective access legislation is simply one that is engaging and well-written with a good implementation plan. The significance of a well drafted and implemented access or freedom of information legislation cannot be over-emphasized as it is regarded as the oxygen of democracy. Access laws increase government transparency and accountability, which promote better public participation in government. There is no gainsaying that access laws need proper drafting to ensure that all vital requirements for their efficacy are included, otherwise there is a risk of enacting a futile legislation. One way of securing a full-proof law is to ensure that it is in tandem with international principles and best practice. Any access legislation is only as good as the quality of the law, which has the ultimate aim of ensuring access to public information. This paper aims to assess the access to information laws of Nigeria, South Africa and Ghana, with a view to ascertain their levels of compliance with the international principles enshrined in Article 19 Model Principles on Access to Information. The paper finds varying degrees of conformity to international standards and underscores the need to harmonize national laws with international standards for effective access to information.