ASSET DECLARATION AND PUBLIC ACCESS AS INSTRUMENTS OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY IN NIGERIA: A CRITIQUE

Abstract

It is a common knowledge that corruption is one of the most serious problems bedevilling almost all developing countries of the world and that Nigeria is not an exception. In order to fight and avert corruption and corruption related problems, various national, international and regional anti-corruption instruments and strategies are usually adopted by different countries including Nigeria, international and regional organisations respectively. Among other anti-corruption strategies, assets declaration schemes and public access to information have been recognized both nationally, internationally and regionally by anti-corruption instruments and agencies as a vital component of transparency and a means of ensuring integrity in public offices. This work examined the legal regimes for assets declaration scheme and public access to information with a view to ascertaining they have enhanced public accountability in Nigeria. The work found that though the different legal, policy and institutional frameworks put in place to ensure accountability through assets declaration and public access to information, they have not been able to achieve the desired goals. The laws are not usually implemented, enforced or monitored. Public agencies have not been able to effectively and efficiently perform their functions as it relates to enhancing accountability. This work therefore recommends that an improved policy framework that ensures efficient and effective implementation of the legal fraworks for assets declaration and public access to information will enhance public accountability in Nigeria.