Advocacy Group Sues Federal Polytechnic Offa Over Alleged Procurement Secrecy

Procurement advocacy group Procure Watch Nigeria has filed a lawsuit against the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, in Kwara State, accusing the institution of violating the Freedom of Information Act 2011 by withholding details of its procurement processes. Announcing the legal action to journalists, the group's legal counsel, Barrister Temi Salami, said the polytechnic had failed to disclose key procurement information as required under the Act, arguing that this lack of transparency raises serious questions about the integrity of public spending at the institution. "Access to information is a fundamental right enshrined in the Freedom of Information Act 2011," Salami said, adding that by withholding procurement details, the polytechnic was denying the public its right to scrutinise how public funds are being used. The suit is asking the court to compel the Federal Polytechnic to release its procurement records in line with the FOI Act. Procure Watch describes the case as an important step toward strengthening transparency, accountability and good governance across Nigeria's public institutions. The group says it has received backing from various NGOs, civil society organisations and members of the public who see the case as part of a broader fight against corruption and the misuse of public resources. Speaking on behalf of Procure Watch Nigeria, Olanike Jimson said the organisation remains committed to championing transparency, accountability and the rule of law within Nigeria's public institutions.