Benue Government and PDP Disagree Over Billboard Removal Ahead of Elections

The Benue State Government and the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are in conflict over a plan to remove unauthorized billboards across the state. The PDP claims this move is aimed at targeting their campaign materials as the 2027 governorship election approaches.

On October 6, 2026, the state government announced a two-week deadline for billboard owners to obtain the necessary permits or face removal. This decision was communicated by Chief Solomon Iorpev, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, who stated that enforcement would begin on October 20, 2026.

The government argues that many billboards have been put up without proper permits, which violates state laws. Iorpev explained that these unauthorized structures not only harm public safety but also deprive the state of revenue. He emphasized that the government is giving billboard owners a chance to comply with the law before enforcement begins.

However, the PDP, represented by its State Publicity Secretary Bright Antyo, strongly criticized the government’s actions. They believe the timing of the directive is politically motivated, aimed at undermining opposition campaigns. The PDP has called the government’s approach a desperate attempt to silence alternative political voices.

The opposition party raised questions about why the government did not enforce these regulations earlier, suggesting that the sudden urgency indicates a calculated effort to clear public spaces of their campaign materials. They argue that the removal of these billboards threatens democratic freedoms.

The PDP also highlighted various issues facing the state, such as insecurity and poor infrastructure, suggesting that the government’s focus on billboard removal distracts from more pressing concerns. They urged civil society and other stakeholders to monitor the situation closely to prevent political persecution.

In their statement, the PDP emphasized that democracy should thrive on public debate and competition, not on the removal of campaign materials. They called for an end to what they view as political intolerance and insisted that all voices should be heard in the upcoming election.