Enugu Agency Imposes Stiff Penalties for Unapproved Political Posters

The Enugu State Structures for Signage and Advertisement Agency (ENSSAA) has once again affirmed its prohibition against the pasting and showcasing of posters throughout the state. The agency issued a stern caution on Wednesday, indicating that individuals caught flouting this directive could face penalties reaching as high as N50 million.

In an official statement released and endorsed by its General Manager, Hon. Francis Aninwike, ENSSAA clarified that this prohibition encompasses all types of posters. This includes materials featuring the names, images, emblems, slogans, and campaign messages of political parties, as well as those of candidates and aspirants.

This fresh warning precedes the upcoming Enugu State local government elections, slated for September 26, 2026, and the broader 2027 general elections. Both periods are anticipated to witness a significant surge in political engagements and campaign activities.

ENSSAA stated that its enforcement is grounded in the Enugu State Structures for Signage and Advertisement Agency Law No. 12 of 2016. Specifically, Sections 4(1)(g), 33, and 34(4)(9) of this law empower the agency to oversee and manage outdoor advertising, including the exhibition of posters and other promotional items.

The agency explicitly stated that no person, political organization, aspiring candidate, or campaign group, or even their supporters, is authorized to stick, attach, or exhibit posters on structures such as buildings, walls, fences, bridges, electricity poles, road infrastructure, public amenities, or any public or private surface within Enugu State. This restriction, according to ENSSAA, is crucial for preventing the widespread defacement of both public and private properties. It also aims to maintain the environmental and visual appeal of cities, towns, and various communities throughout the state.

Furthermore, ENSSAA extended its warning to printers and printing businesses, cautioning them against producing or assisting in the creation of posters meant for illicit display or attachment. The statement explicitly stated, “Where any such poster is traced to a printer, the printer may be subject to investigation and appropriate sanctions where its involvement in the violation is established in accordance with the law.”

ENSSAA reiterated that any individual found contravening this ban would be liable to face relevant financial penalties and other legal sanctions. The agency offered guidance to political parties, candidates, aspirants, and their campaign bodies, recommending the use of radio, television, print, and digital media channels, alongside designated billboards, for their electoral campaigns.

It was emphasized that this prohibition applies “equally and without fear or favour” to all entities, including individuals, political parties, candidates, aspirants, organizations, and private citizens, regardless of their political alignment or social standing. The agency concluded by stating, “The ban remains in force. All are hereby advised to comply accordingly.”