The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Abia State, Chief Eric Opah, has announced that his campaign will focus on the experiences of workers, pensioners, and traders. On September 23, 2026, Opah addressed supporters in Umuahia, stating that these individuals, affected by government policies, constitute his "billboards." He emphasized that his campaign will prioritize the people who drive Abia's economy and bear the consequences of government policies.
Opah's comments come amid controversy over campaign advertising permit fees announced by the Abia State Structures for Signages and Advertising Agency (ABSSAA). The agency had announced fees of N200 million for presidential candidates and N150 million for governorship candidates seeking permits for campaign advertising in the state. These fees have drawn opposition from political and advertising stakeholders, with the matter currently before the courts.
Rather than engaging in the dispute over campaign signboards, Opah highlighted his experience as an entrepreneur and his decision to contest the governorship. He stated that his assessment of the state's economic management informed his decision to run. According to Opah, Abia is not being managed well, which is why he is "throwing his hat into the ring."
Opah's campaign strategy will focus on people whose daily activities contribute to the state's economy and who bear the consequences of government policies. He believes that these individuals are the only "billboards that truly matter." By prioritizing their experiences, Opah aims to connect with the people who are most affected by the government's actions.
The APC candidate's approach differs from the traditional method of using physical billboards for campaign advertising. Instead, Opah will rely on the stories and experiences of workers, pensioners, and traders to convey his message. This strategy allows him to connect with the people on a more personal level and showcase his commitment to addressing their concerns.
Opah's decision to contest the governorship was informed by his assessment of the state's economic management. As a builder who has built businesses, he believes that he has the expertise to turn the state's economy around. His campaign will focus on creating a more favorable business environment and addressing the challenges faced by workers, pensioners, and traders.
The controversy over campaign advertising permit fees in Abia has sparked a heated debate among stakeholders. While some argue that the fees are necessary to regulate campaign advertising, others believe that they are excessive and may discourage candidates from contesting. Opah's decision to focus on workers, pensioners, and traders may be seen as a way to sidestep the controversy and connect directly with the people.
Key points
- Opah will rely on workers, pensioners, and traders' experiences to drive his campaign.
- The APC candidate's decision to contest the governorship was informed by his assessment of the state's economic management.
- Opah's campaign strategy prioritizes people whose daily activities contribute to the state's economy.
