Kenneth Okonkwo Blasts N200m Abia Campaign Billboard Fee, Accuses APC of Targeting Opposition

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has condemned the N200 million campaign billboard fee imposed on presidential candidates in Abia State, alleging that the policy is designed to frustrate opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Friday, the former Nollywood actor-turned-politician accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating the development, claiming it was part of a broader strategy to weaken political competition across the country.

Okonkwo also criticised Abia State Governor Alex Otti, alleging that the governor had allowed himself to be used to implement what he described as an APC-backed agenda aimed at making it difficult for opposition parties to campaign effectively.

“It’s unfortunate that in Nigeria, the ruling party has made it impossible for the opposition to strive. In Abia State, you are hearing a huge amount for you to put up your billboards for N200 million for a presidential candidate.

He argued that if similar charges were introduced across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, the cumulative cost would make political advertising unaffordable for many candidates.

“Now, multiply N200 million by 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, you would see the perfidy. Just an opportunity to advertise and tell Nigerians what you want to do. APC is a scourge that wants to destroy our democracy,” Okonkwo said.

The ADC chieftain expressed surprise at Governor Otti’s role in the policy, insisting that the move would significantly limit the ability of opposition parties to communicate their manifestos to voters.

“I’m surprised that Governor Otti will fall for that. As far as I’m concerned, that is an APC agenda using Governor Otti to make it impossible for the opposition political parties to campaign, and it’s really unfortunate,” he added.

The controversy follows the decision by the Abia State Structure for Signage and Advertising Agency (ABSSAA) to fix a N200 million fee for presidential candidates seeking to erect campaign billboards in the state’s advertising spaces. The agency also announced a N150 million fee for governorship candidates.

The billboard charges have since sparked political debate, with critics questioning whether the fees could restrict fair political participation, while supporters argue that advertising regulations remain within the powers of state authorities.