The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, appears to be intensifying efforts to stifle opposition voices ahead of the November 8 governorship election in the state. In a controversial move, the Anambra State Signage and Advertisement Agency (ANSSA), acting under the governor’s directive, imposed a staggering ₦50 million campaign feeon each political party as a prerequisite to commence political advertisement and campaign activities.
Despite the steep fee, the Young Progressive Party (YPP) candidate, Sir Paul Chukwuma, has complied with the demand, demonstrating his commitment to law and order and belief in fair, issue-based political engagement. However, in a surprising twist, a YPP campaign billboard that had been duly approved and mounted at Unizik Junction in Awka—on a space legally acquired from ESMIC International Ltd, a licensed advertising firm—was abruptly dismantled by ANSSA on the orders of Governor Soludo.
This act has sparked widespread outrage, especially given the fact that all regulatory requirements, payments, and approvals had been secured prior to the billboard’s installation.
Observers note this is not an isolated case. During the buildup to the 2023 Presidential Election, billboards belonging to the Labour Party’s presidential candidate were also removed at the same location, suggesting a disturbing pattern of abuse of power to silence dissent.
It is clear Governor Soludo is running scared—resorting to undemocratic tactics to suppress legitimate opposition. If he and his supporters truly believe in his leadership and performance, why then resort to censorship, harassment, and economic sabotage of political rivals?
Anambra people must rise to defend democratic values and resist any form of authoritarianism. While history will not forget Governor Soludo’s heavy-handedness, it is the electorate who must first render judgment at the polls on November 8.
