ARCON Warns States Against Illegal Signage and Advertising Practices Ahead of 2027 Elections
The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has issued a firm warning to states and advertising agencies regarding illegal signage and advertising practices, especially concerning submission and vetting of political and other advertisements before exposure. The move aims to curb the proliferation of illegal signage and ensure compliance with the nation’s advertising laws.
In a statement dated 13th February 2026, Dr. Olalekan Fadalope, the Director-General of ARCON, emphasised that state signage and advertising agencies’ laws are incompatible with the Nigerian Constitution, stating, “Kindly note that State Signage and Advertising Agencies’ laws are alien to the Nigerian Constitution, and such power does not fall within the legislative remit of a state.”
He further stressed that it is not within the jurisdiction of State Advertising and/or Signage Agencies to request, receive, or approve any advertisement—political or otherwise—before exposure, emphasising, “This act is illegal and unconstitutional.”
As Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections, ARCON urges state signage agencies to exercise caution and avoid directives that could undermine the oversight responsibilities of the federal government. The DG also called for collaboration with state agencies to ensure a peaceful election and prevent policies that could lead to chaos or bottlenecks in the electoral process.
The statement underscores ARCON’s commitment to addressing misconceptions and misinformation among stakeholders and the public regarding illegal directives by Ondo and Enugu State signage agencies, highlighting the importance of transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
Recall, the agencies in the states gave the directive that all practitioners, advertisers, and advertising agencies involved in out-of-home advertising in the state should submit some categories of advertisements, i.e., political, gaming, lottery, and branded advertisements, before exposure.
“It is unlawful and ultra vires the powers of a state advertising and/or signage regulatory agency,” the statement reads.
Dr. Fadalope concluded, “ARCON will seek and collaborate with State Signage Agencies in ensuring a peaceful electioneering and voters’ education devoid of partisans and guerrilla policies.”