EVALUATION OF THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION (FOI) LAW IN JOURNALISM PRACTICE: A STUDY OF PUNCH NEWSPAPER

This study evaluated the freedom of information (FOI) law in journalism practice, using punch newspaper as a case study. The research adopted the survey research method, drawing the survey research method, drawing on both primary and secondary source. A structured questionnaire was administered to 100 journalists working with punch newspaper, selected using purposive sampling data collected were analyzed using simple percentage and presented in table. Findings from the study revealed that punch journalists are highly aware of the FOI law and understand it’s implications for their professional duties. The law has improved access to information that was previously restricted, enabling journalists to better perform their roles of informing the public and holding power to account. Despite its strengths, the study also identified several weaknesses in the implementation of the FOI law. These include the persistence of other restrictive laws such as the official secrets. Act, lack of proper enforcement mechanisms and ambiguities within certain section of the FOI act that limit its full application in journalism. The study recommends a review of conflicting legal provisions, greater sensitization of journalist on the use of the FOI law and improved cooperation from public institutions. It also suggested that media organizations should organize workshops and training to enhance journalist ability to use the law effectively in their work.