The plaintiffs argue that the signage charge violates electoral laws and could restrict political participation ahead of the 2027 elections.
Oyo State Governor and Allied Peoples Movement (APM) presidential candidate, Seyi Makinde, and the party have sued Abia State Governor Alex Otti over an alleged ₦200 million campaign billboard fee.
The suit, marked HU/214/2026, was filed before the Abia State High Court, Umuahia Judicial Division, on September 17, 2026.
The plaintiffs also joined the Abia State Attorney-General, the Abia State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ABSAA) and the State House of Assembly as defendants.
Plaintiffs Challenge Campaign Fee
Makinde and the APM argued that the fee imposed on presidential candidates seeking to display campaign materials in Abia violates the Constitution, the Electoral Act 2026 and other relevant laws.
They are asking the court to set aside ABSAA regulations imposing the ₦200 million fee or any similar charge on presidential candidates.
The plaintiffs also want a perpetual injunction preventing the defendants and their agents from removing, defacing, destroying or obstructing their campaign billboards and outdoor advertisements.
APM Cites Electoral Act Provisions
The plaintiffs argued that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has exclusive authority to establish rules governing political campaigns.
They cited provisions of the 1999 Constitution and Section 99(1) of the Electoral Act 2026 in support of their position.
They further relied on Section 99(2), which prohibits the use of state apparatus or regulatory bodies to favour or disadvantage a political party or candidate.
Makinde and the APM alleged that the fee could create financial barriers for opposition candidates and affect equal participation in the electoral process.
These claims remain arguments presented by the plaintiffs and have not been judicially determined.
Plaintiffs Reference ₦10bn Campaign Spending Limit
The suit also refers to Section 92 of the Electoral Act, which sets the total campaign expenditure limit for a presidential election at ₦10 billion nationwide.
The plaintiffs argued that if similar billboard charges were introduced across states, campaign advertising expenses could consume a substantial portion of the permitted spending limit.
They maintained that state powers over outdoor signage must not override valid federal electoral legislation.
Court Asked to Protect Campaign Rights
The supporting affidavit was reportedly deposed to by Aisha Abdullahi Abubakar, identified as the APM’s National Welfare Officer.
She stated that the plaintiffs became aware of the fee while preparing for a nationwide campaign tour covering the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The plaintiffs argued that unless the court intervenes, the fee could undermine their constitutional right to seek public office and the principle of a level playing field.
The court’s decision on the claims was not included in the supplied report.
