PRESS RELEASE
31st July 2026
ABSSAA’S CAMPAIGN ADVERTISEMENT FEES: REGULATION MUST STRENGTHEN, NOT RESTRICT, DEMOCRACY
The Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS) has noted the alleged decision of the Abia State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ABSSAA) prescribing campaign advertisement fees for candidates participating in the 2027 General Elections.
We commend the Abia State Government and ABSSAA for introducing a framework aimed at regulating outdoor advertising, promoting environmental orderliness, and ensuring accountability in the use of public advertising spaces. Government undoubtedly possesses the legal authority to regulate public infrastructure in the public interest.
However, every regulatory policy must conform to the Constitution and the principles of democratic governance.
Sections 39 and 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) guarantee the rights to freedom of expression and political association, while Section 42 prohibits discriminatory treatment. Similarly, the Electoral Act, 2022 promotes equal political participation and prohibits unfair practices capable of conferring undue advantage on any candidate or political party. In INEC v. Musa (2003), the Supreme Court reaffirmed that democracy thrives on openness, inclusiveness and equal political opportunity, and that participation in the democratic process cannot be subjected to arbitrary restrictions.
Against this backdrop, CEHRAWS is concerned that the prescribed fees, particularly ₦20 million for the House of Assembly candidates, appear excessive and may constitute an unintended financial barrier to political participation. Such charges risk favouring wealthy candidates while placing smaller political parties, independent-minded contestants, women, youths and persons with disabilities at a significant disadvantage.
Democracy must never become an exclusive preserve of the highest bidder.
Accordingly, CEHRAWS respectfully urges ABSSAA to:
✓ Publish the legal basis and methodology used in fixing the fees.
✓ Review the charges through broader consultations with political parties, civil society and other stakeholders.
✓ Ensure that regulatory fees remain reasonable, proportionate and consistent with constitutional guarantees and democratic principles.
✓ Clearly define the services and advertising facilities covered by the approved charges to promote transparency and accountability.
Regulating campaign advertising is legitimate; pricing democratic participation beyond the reach of many Nigerians is not. A truly democratic society is measured not by how much candidates can pay to be heard, but by how fairly every qualified candidate can access the electorate.
CEHRAWS remains committed to supporting policies that advance constitutionalism, good governance, transparency and an inclusive democratic process where ideas, not financial strength determine electoral success.
Signed
Okoye, Chuka Peter
Executive Director, CEHRAWS
cehraws@gmail.com | +234(0)808-035-1242(WhatsApp only)
Facebook: @cehraws
