Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo, the Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), provides insights into the decision to remove the ‘All Eyes on the Judiciary’ billboard advertisements nationwide and dissolve the Advertising Standard Panel Secretariat. The decision was made due to violations of vetting guidelines and concerns about potential public unrest and breach of peace.
Fadolapo explains that the advertisements violated regulations set by ARCON, as they contained comparative elements, superlative claims without justification, and were politically aligned. He notes that the advertisements were in direct conflict with Nigeria’s legal system, as issues under court jurisdiction should not be publicly discussed.
The Director-General addresses the claim that the punitive actions were influenced by political figures or the presidency, clarifying that the decision was an administrative procedure made to prevent potential national unrest and restore sanity. He states that the dissolution of the Advertising Standard Panel Secretariat and suspension of its director and deputy director were due to errors made in approving the advertisements.
Fadolapo emphasizes that the dissolution and suspension were not aimed at scapegoating, but rather at maintaining order and preventing further controversy. He highlights that ARCON’s actions were taken to uphold advertising standards, which are vital to preventing misinformation and maintaining a peaceful society.
Regarding the potential infringement of the advertisers’ freedom of expression, Fadolapo points out that freedom of speech is not absolute and that one’s freedom ends where it infringes upon the rights of others. He explains that the advertisements could potentially impact the Presidential Election Petition Court’s proceedings and cause unnecessary controversy if not addressed promptly.
In summary, Dr. Fadolapo underscores the importance of adhering to advertising regulations to prevent misinformation, social unrest, and potential national crises. He reiterates that ARCON’s actions were meant to protect the peace and stability of the nation, regardless of political affiliations.