The Ekiti State Signage and Advertisement Agency (EKSAA) has announced plans to commence full enforcement of approved fees and levies on the erection and display of commercial and non-commercial signs and advertisements across the state, ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.

The Director-General of the agency, Adebisi Adesua, disclosed this during a radio audience-participatory simulcast programme, ‘Ekiti Today’ on Thursday.

He said the enforcement would cover a broad range of signage, including billboards, streetlight poles, posters, and vehicle branding, in strict compliance with existing state laws.

Adesua explained that the initiative is aimed at curbing illegal signage, restoring orderliness, and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the state.

According to him, EKSAA was established to regulate and control outdoor advertising in Ekiti State, ensuring that all signage is safe, visually appealing, and aligned with orderly urban development.

He stressed that political parties are required to pay a N5 million Campaign Signage and Advertisement fee before displaying campaign posters or materials anywhere in the state.

He clarified that the fee covers the entire campaign period across all local governments, wards, and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).

“The fee structure is designed to promote fairness and proper regulation of political branding,” Adesua said, noting that campaign signage is often the first point of contact between candidates and voters and must therefore be properly managed in public spaces.

Expressing satisfaction with the level of compliance so far, he revealed that the All Progressives Congress (APC) and several other political parties have already complied with the directive.

He assured residents and political stakeholders that EKSAA officials have been adequately trained to carry out their duties in a fair, humane, and firm manner.

The DG added that the agency remains committed to providing a level playing field for all political actors, in line with the assurances of Governor Biodun Oyebanji.

However, Adesua warned that non-compliance with signage regulations would attract sanctions, including the confiscation of campaign materials and possible prosecution.

While noting that the agency contributes to the state’s revenue generation, he clarified that EKSAA officials are not empowered to collect taxes, lock shops, or seal business premises.

He explained that improperly placed or unapproved signage may be removed and taken to the agency’s office, with defaulters required to pay double the original fee before retrieval.

The EKSAA boss also cautioned against indiscriminate pasting of posters, stressing that certain areas have been designated as restricted zones.

These, he said, include bridges, public schools, government buildings, and prominent locations such as the Fajuyi axis, which he described as “the eyes of the town.”

Advising individuals and organisations to seek proper approval and adhere strictly to established guidelines to avoid traffic obstruction or damage to public infrastructure, Adesua noted that churches and mosques are exempt from payment for their signboards.

He added that street naming and address signage fall under the jurisdiction of local governments.

He called on political parties, organisations, and the general public to support the agency’s efforts at maintaining a serene environment and creating a visually pleasing landscape across Ekiti State. (Nigerian Tribune)