Billboard Fees Fueling Political Violence: Falana’s Warning

In a recent development, Human Rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has raised an alarming concern about the exorbitant fees charged for billboard advertisements in Nigeria. According to reports by Tribune Online, Falana claimed that these high fees are fueling political violence in the country.

During a press conference on Sunday, Falana expressed his concerns about the growing trend of candidates and political parties spending millions of naira on billboard advertisements.

“The high fees charged for billboard advertisements have become a major source of funding for political thugs and hoodlums who resort to violence during elections,” Falana was quoted as saying.

Falana further stated that this practice undermines the integrity of the electoral process and discourages citizens from participating in elections. He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to regulate the fees charged for billboard advertisements to curb the menace.

This is not the first time Falana has raised concerns about the role of money in politics. In the past, he has criticized the high cost of obtaining the nomination forms for political offices and the influence of godfathers in Nigerian politics.

The exorbitant fees charged for billboard advertisements have been a subject of debate in recent times. Critics argue that they are a barrier to entry for newcomers in the political space and a means for incumbents to maintain their grip on power.

Falana’s warning comes as the country gears up for the 2027 general elections, and it remains to be seen if the relevant authorities will take his concerns seriously.