By Chukwudi Louis Ani, Political Economist
The recent decision by the Enugu State Government to impose a ₦150,000,000 levy on political billboards raises significant concerns about fairness, democratic participation, and equal opportunity in politics.
At a time when citizens are already facing economic challenges, introducing such a steep fee for political advertising sends a troubling message. Elections should be contests of ideas, competence, and vision, not tests of financial strength.
By placing political billboards behind a ₦150 million barrier, the policy effectively excludes young aspirants, independent candidates, and smaller political parties who lack access to substantial financial resources.
This measure creates what can be described as a “game of exclusivity.” It benefits entrenched political elites while limiting grassroots participation.
Democracy thrives when political spaces are open and competitive. When financial obstacles are this high, the playing field tilts heavily in favor of those already in power.
Furthermore, such a levy risks being seen as a tool for political control rather than genuine regulation. Governments have a responsibility to regulate public advertising for safety and urban planning, but the cost must be reasonable and justifiable.
A fee of this scale raises questions: What is the government trying to guard against — opposition voices, competitive campaigns, or the possibility of a truly level playing field?
Policies that restrict political expression in this manner undermine public trust and fuel suspicion. Instead of imposing heavy financial barriers, the government should focus on transparent, fair, and inclusive electoral processes. Democracy should never be priced beyond the reach of the people.
We remain equal to the task.
