The Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ANSAA) has formally petitioned the Police against the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its governorship candidate for violating the Out-Of-Home campaign regulations.
Dr. Tony Ujubuoñu, Managing Director of ANSAA, made the announcement during a press conference held in Awka on Tuesday.
DAILY GAZETTE recall that ANSAA had earlier set a ₦50 million approval fee for outdoor advertising and campaign activities ahead of the November 8 governorship election.
Dr. Ujubuoñu explained that these guidelines were introduced to promote orderliness, fairness, and aesthetic standards during the electioneering period.
He revealed that only five of the 16 registered political parties had complied by paying the required campaign fees.
Ujubuoñu added that on August 1, members of the ANSAA enforcement team were attacked by APC supporters while attempting to remove unauthorized outdoor campaign materials.
He emphasized that political parties are free to use alternative campaigning methods such as social media, radio, or television, as long as they adhere to established rules.
The agency issued two demand notices giving APC a two-week period to comply, followed by a legal reminder with an additional one-week deadline. However, these notices were disregarded.
“Despite not securing the mandatory campaign permit, APC has carried out unauthorized promotional activities including erecting posters, branding vehicles, hanging banners, and hosting events with promotional items,” Ujubuoñu stated.
He further noted that in Nri, Anaocha Local Government Area, APC supporters obstructed ANSAA officials during their lawful operation and resorted to violence.
“ANSAA has officially reported the assault of our personnel in Nri to the Nigeria Police and will pursue all legal avenues to maintain the authority and integrity of our regulatory mandate,” he concluded.
