By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
A media advocacy organisation, Media Rights Agenda (MRA), has criticised the Delta State Police Command for inviting a rights activist for questioning following a Freedom of Information (FOI) request.
In a statement issued in Lagos, MRA said the police invitation sent to Comrade Victor Ojie, leader of the Young Nigerian Rights Organization (YNRO), raises concerns about the protection of citizens’ rights under the FOI Act, 2011. According to the group, Ojie had submitted an FOI request to the Delta State Ministry of Lands and Survey seeking records and petitions related to land disputes in Aniocha South Local Government Area.
MRA said the police subsequently issued a letter inviting the activist to the State Intelligence Department (SID) in Asaba regarding the request. The letter, dated March 3, 2026, reportedly directed him to appear before the Assistant Commissioner of Police at the SID office.
In the statement signed by its Deputy Executive Director, Ayode Longe, the organisation said the FOI Act grants citizens the legal right to request information from public institutions without needing to provide a specific reason.
Longe said the law also outlines procedures for public institutions to respond to such requests, including circumstances where information may be lawfully withheld. He expressed concern that inviting a citizen for questioning over an FOI request could discourage members of the public from seeking information from government institutions.
MRA urged the Delta State Commissioner of Police and the Inspector-General of Police to review the matter and ensure that the rights of citizens making lawful FOI requests are protected.The organisation also called on the Attorney-General of the Federation to support compliance with the FOI Act by public institutions.
