Media Rights Agenda (MRA) has condemned the Delta State Police Command for summoning an activist following a request for information made under Nigeria’s Freedom of Information (FOI) Act.
In a statement issued in Lagos on Wednesday, the group described the police invitation to Comrade Victor Ojie, leader of the Young Nigerian Rights Organization (YNRO), as an abuse of power and an attempt to intimidate a citizen for exercising his legal rights.
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According to MRA, the YNRO had written to the Delta State Ministry of Lands and Survey requesting access to petitions and records concerning land disputes in Aniocha South Local Government Area. Instead of responding within the seven-day period stipulated by the FOI Act or formally declining the request based on lawful exemptions, the Ministry allegedly involved the police.
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The Delta State Police Command, through its State Intelligence Department in Asaba, issued a letter inviting Ojie to appear before the Assistant Commissioner of Police on March 9, 2026, to discuss the matter.
MRA’s Deputy Executive Director, Ayode Longe, said the action sends a worrying signal that citizens seeking public information could face harassment. He stressed that the FOI Act allows any person to request information from public institutions without providing reasons for doing so.
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The organization noted that the law clearly outlines the procedure for denying access to information and does not include police intervention as part of the process.
MRA called on the Delta State Commissioner of Police and the Inspector-General of Police to withdraw the summons and ensure that Ojie and members of his organization are not subjected to further harassment. It also urged the Attorney-General of the Federation to intervene and ensure compliance with the FOI Act by all public institutions.
