ARCON warns against unapproved political ads in Nigeria

The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has issued a warning to political parties, campaign organizations, advertising agencies, and media owners regarding the use of unapproved political advertisements ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Director-General Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo stated that the council has observed advertisements being exposed without the required regulatory approval from the Advertising Standards Panel (ASP). Some of these advertisements have reportedly violated religious and ethical guidelines, as well as the Nigerian Code of Advertising.

ARCON announced that it will remove unapproved billboards and may prosecute the individuals or corporate bodies responsible for their installation. Under Section 34(3) of the ARCON Act No. 23 of 2022, exposing unapproved advertisements on traditional or online media platforms constitutes an offense. The agency urged all stakeholders to ensure their marketing communications comply with existing Nigerian advertising laws.