KWASAA Clarifies Billboard Enforcement at Geri Alimi Underpass

The Kwara State Signage and Advertisement Agency, KWASAA, has explained its recent enforcement action on a billboard structure at the Geri Alimi Underpass in Ilorin.

The agency said the action was based on the approval status of the structure and outstanding obligations by its operator, and was not targeted at any political party or candidate.

KWASAA said political parties found directly responsible for violations are formally contacted through official channels. It cited a previous case involving the Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, where the party was written to and invited for discussions following damage to government infrastructure.

The agency advised the PDP and Engineer Kawu to seek clarification from the operator who rented out the advertising space, stressing that payment for a billboard does not automatically mean that the structure has the required approval.

KWASAA also raised questions over the structure, including whether it existed at the location before the enforcement action, whether the operator had settled outstanding obligations following earlier enforcement on its billboards, and who approved the installation of the iron framework on the bridge.

The agency said the framework was installed without its approval or supervision and could pose a safety risk to road users.

KWASAA maintained that the protection of public infrastructure and the safety of residents remain its priorities, adding that enforcement would be carried out fairly, regardless of the political affiliation of advertisers.

It advised political parties, candidates and other advertisers to verify the approval status of advertising structures and the compliance record of operators before making payments or installing materials.

The statement was signed by Ajiboye Rachael, Press Secretary, Kwara State Signage and Advertisement Agency.