The Cross River State Government has introduced new charges for political campaign advertisements, with presidential candidates expected to pay up to N150 million while campaign advertisements for governorship candidates have reportedly been pegged at N100 million.
The development has generated fresh attention as political activities continue to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The new charges are part of measures announced by the state authorities to regulate political advertising and campaign activities across Cross River. The fees are expected to apply to political advertisements placed on designated government owned platforms and other approved advertising channels...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
Under the reported arrangement, presidential campaign advertisements attract the highest charge of N150 million, while governorship campaign advertisements have been fixed at N100 million.
The charges have raised questions about the cost of political campaigns and the growing financial demands associated with seeking elective office in Nigeria.
Political campaigns already involve significant expenses, including logistics, media campaigns, rallies, transportation, publicity materials, digital advertising and mobilisation of supporters. The introduction of substantial advertising fees could therefore add another major financial burden for political parties and candidates.
Supporters of the policy may argue that regulating political advertising can help create order and provide a structured framework for campaign activities. It could also generate revenue for the state while ensuring that political advertisements comply with relevant regulations.
However, critics may question whether such high charges could favour wealthy candidates and political parties over less financially powerful contenders.
The issue is particularly sensitive because Nigeria’s political landscape has long been dominated by concerns over the rising cost of elections and the influence of money in politics.
With the 2027 elections approaching, political parties are expected to increase their visibility through traditional and digital media platforms. Candidates will likely compete for public attention through television, radio, newspapers, billboards, social media and other forms of advertising.
The reported charges in Cross River therefore come at a time when politicians are beginning to position themselves for the next electoral cycle.
The development could also prompt discussions among political parties and stakeholders about the affordability of campaign advertising and the need to ensure a level playing field for all candidates.
For political aspirants planning to campaign extensively in the state, the reported N150 million presidential advertising fee and N100 million governorship advertising fee represent substantial financial commitments.
As preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum, the cost of political campaigning is expected to remain a major issue, particularly as parties and candidates seek effective ways to reach voters while operating within electoral and financial regulations.
The new advertising charges have consequently added another dimension to the debate over how much it now costs to contest for political office in Nigeria.
