A law firm has filed a petition with the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) in Zamfara State, demanding the release of Governor Dauda Lawal’s asset declaration form under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). This comes after the Governor’s recent denial of possessing the vast sum of Naira and foreign currencies previously reported to be declared on his asset form.

The petition requests a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the form submitted by Governor Lawal, aiming to shed light on the discrepancies and ensure transparency in public office. The move follows a month of public speculation and debate surrounding the Governor’s declared assets.

“We believe the public has a right to know the truth about Governor Lawal’s financial holdings,” stated a representative of the law firm. “Disclosing the Asset Declaration Form will allow for independent verification and address the concerns raised regarding its accuracy.”

The petition further emphasizes the importance of the CCB upholding the FOIA’s principles. The Act guarantees citizens access to information held by public institutions, promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

“The CCB has a legal obligation to comply with the FOIA,” the representative added. “By releasing Governor Lawal’s asset declaration form, they can demonstrate their commitment to transparency and help to restore public trust.”

The petition comes at a time when questions about public officials’ financial dealings are increasingly under scrutiny. Calls for transparency and accountability are growing, and the public is demanding greater access to information about their leaders’ wealth.