Benue gives two-week ultimatum to owners of unauthorised billboards
The Benue State Government Signage and Advertisement Agency, in collaboration with the Benue State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) and the Urban Development Board, has issued a two-week ultimatum for individuals, groups, and political parties to regularize unauthorised billboards installed across the state. Those failing to comply face penalties.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Chief Solomon Iorpev, the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation. Iorpev noted that the billboards were erected without the necessary permits from the Signage and Advertisement Agency, without clearance from the Urban Development Board, and without payment of required fees.
“The practice breaches the law, deprives the state of legitimate revenue, endangers public safety, and undermines the orderly development of our towns and cities,” Iorpev stated. He expressed understanding that some individuals may have acted out of ignorance rather than intentional disregard for the law.
The grace period, which begins on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, allows billboard operators to rectify their situations. Iorpev urged those affected to contact the Benue State Signage and Advertisement Agency to initiate the permitting process, obtain the necessary clearances, and pay all applicable fees.
He warned that enforcement actions would commence on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at which point removal teams will begin dismantling billboards that remain unregulated. Owners will bear the cost of removing their billboards and will not receive further notifications.
“Anyone who ignores this window should expect no sympathy and no exception, regardless of their status, affiliation, or political party,” said Iorpev. He emphasized the importance of compliance and expressed the government’s preference for cooperation over confrontation.
The grace period is intended to demonstrate the government’s goodwill, and Iorpev encouraged all parties to take advantage of this opportunity.
