2027: Situation Room decries high campaign billboard fees

The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room has raised concerns over the exorbitant fees charged by state governments for political campaign billboards, warning that these costs could limit the visibility of opposition parties and hinder fair competition prior to the 2027 general elections. Reports indicate that presidential billboard permit fees have surged to N200m in Abia State, N150m in Enugu, Kogi and Cross River States, N75m in Rivers, and N50m in Anambra.

The group also noted that Benue State reportedly charges N40m for presidential campaign billboards, describing the fees as potentially detrimental to candidates with limited financial resources. This comes as the Situation Room expressed worry over opposition parties being denied prime billboard locations and having campaign advertisements destroyed or restricted.

The organization emphasized that regulation of outdoor advertising should not be used to restrict political expression or disadvantage opposition parties.