The Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed April 16 as the date for judgment in a lawsuit compelling the National Population Commission (NPC) to provide a detailed account of the N200 billion earmarked for the delayed 2023 Census. Lawyer Victor Opatola filed the suit, citing the NPC’s refusal to disclose how the funds were utilized.
During the court session before Justice Inyang Ekwo, Opatola, representing himself, confirmed the filing and exchange of all necessary legal documents. On the other hand, counsel to the NPC, C.D Chimezie, also acknowledged and adopted all relevant processes.
The lawsuit stems from Opatola’s Freedom of Information (FOI) application to the NPC, seeking details on the budget, funds received, due diligence reports on technology to be deployed, and contracts awarded for the 2023 Census. Despite the application being duly served, the NPC allegedly failed to comply within the stipulated timeframe, according to Opatola.
Consequently, Opatola urged the court to grant several orders of mandamus, directing the NPC to furnish him with the requested comprehensive and detailed information within seven days. Additionally, he sought declarations affirming the NPC’s refusal as a violation of the FOI Act and emphasizing the importance of transparency in the census preparation process.
Opatola clarified that his requests aimed to ensure the suitability of the deployed technology and prevent any conflicts of interest in the allocation of contracts, crucial for upholding the census’s integrity.
Following these arguments, Justice Ekwo adjourned the case until April 16 for judgment. This development has sparked anticipation for a landmark decision that could set a precedent for public institutions’ transparency and accountability in Nigeria.
