The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kogi State has rejected the new campaign signage and advertisement fees introduced by the state government ahead of the October 2026 local government council polls and the 2027 general elections.
In a statement by its state chairman, Mohammed Gambo, the opposition party described the charges—including the ₦50 million fee for senatorial candidates—as excessive, disproportionate, and undemocratic.
While acknowledging the state’s right to regulate outdoor advertising, Gambo argued that regulatory fees must remain reasonable and not serve as a financial barrier to political participation.
“Elections are contests of ideas, service, and the will of the people. Government regulation must never become a financial barrier capable of determining who can effectively communicate with the electorate,” Gambo said.
The PDP chairman noted that under Section 92(4) of the Electoral Act 2026, which caps total campaign spending for a senatorial candidate at ₦500 million, the ₦50 million signage fee alone consumes 10 percent of a candidate’s statutory budget.
He also faulted the state government’s decision to extend the levy to personal items like branded T-shirts, caps, and private vehicles, stating that imposing charges on personal political expression infringes on constitutional rights to free expression and association.
Consequently, the Kogi PDP called on the state government to review the rates and convene a meeting with registered political parties, civil society organizations, and the Kogi State Signage and Advertisement Agency (KOSSAA) to establish a fair fee framework.
The party reiterated its commitment to peaceful and inclusive elections while advocating for a level playing field for all political actors in the state.
