The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Ogugu State Constituency in Kogi State, Michael Samuel Idoko, has rejected the N5 million campaign signage levy imposed on State House of Assembly candidates by the state government.
Idoko described the levy as anti democratic and a financial burden that could make political participation increasingly difficult for young people, women and grassroots politicians.
He was reacting to an announcement by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo, that candidates contesting the 2027 House of Assembly elections would pay N5 million for billboards, posters and other campaign materials.
Under the approved charges, presidential candidates are expected to pay N150 million, senatorial candidates N50 million, House of Representatives candidates N30 million and State House of Assembly candidates N5 million.
Idoko questioned the justification for the charges, arguing that electoral success is determined by the confidence and support of voters rather than the number of campaign billboards displayed.
He said the N5 million required from an Assembly candidate could instead be used to support indigent students, empower youths, assist vulnerable families and address other community needs in Ogugu.
The PDP candidate also warned that high campaign costs could gradually turn elective office into an opportunity available mainly to wealthy individuals, thereby limiting participation by ordinary citizens.
According to him, government should make democratic participation more accessible rather than impose financial requirements capable of discouraging citizens from seeking elective positions.
Idoko called on the Kogi State Government to review the policy and introduce a more affordable framework for political advertising.
He said his campaign would focus on grassroots engagement, accessibility and issues affecting constituents, rather than expensive campaign signage.
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