Post by DENNIS (@NDB)

POLITICAL ADVERTISING: The Abia State Government has announced that presidential candidates seeking to advertise their campaigns through billboards and posters in the state will be required to pay ₦200 million for a campaign advertising permit.

The fee was unveiled by the Abia State Structures for Signages and Advertising Agency (ABSSAA) during a stakeholders’ forum in Aba focused on political campaign advertising ahead of upcoming elections.

According to ABSSAA, the approved permit fees are:

• Presidential candidates — ₦200 million
• Governorship candidates — ₦150 million
• Senatorial candidates — ₦100 million
• House of Representatives candidates — ₦50 million
• State Assembly candidates — ₦20 million

ABSSAA said the rates were approved by the state government and would apply throughout the official campaign period.

The Director-General of the Strategic Communications Bureau, Onyebuchi Ememanka, described the policy as non-negotiable, saying it is aimed at maintaining order, public safety and environmental standards while ensuring equal access for all political parties.

“The Abia Government will not discriminate against any political party or candidate. Once the rules are followed and fees paid, everyone will enjoy the same opportunity,” he said.

However, the Out-of-Home Advertising Association of Nigeria (OAAN) expressed concerns that the fees are too high and could negatively affect political advertising, voter awareness and participation.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Abia also questioned the legality of the charges, arguing that outdoor advertising fees are constitutionally tied to local government authorities and warning that any policy conflicting with the Electoral Act could face legal scrutiny.

The announcement has sparked debate among political stakeholders as preparations for future election campaigns gather momentum.

0 likes · 0 comments · 1 shares