A Bill to regulate outdoor advertising in Akwa Ibom State has passed second reading at the state House of Assembly.
Leader of the House, Sir Udo Kierian Akpan (Oruk Anam), who led debate on the Bill at Plenary on Monday, said the Bill, when passed, will regulate the placement of outdoor advertising structures across the state.
He said, “Under the Bill, every outdoor advertising agent shall register with a relevant government Ministry or Agency with unique registration numbers assigned to every outdoor structure.”
While expressing displeasure over indiscriminate placement of advertising structures in the state, he further disclosed that under the Bill, no person shall establish or operate any billboard or commercial advertising outfit without being a member of a recognized advertising body or obtaining permission from a government ministry.
In their separate contributions, some of the lawmakers, who spoke in favour of the Bill including Barr Aniefiok Denis (Etinan), Elder Mark Esset (Nsit Atai), Dr Usoro Akpanusoh (Ibeno/Esit Eket), Rt. Hon. David Lawrence (Eket) and Elder Aniekan Uko (Ibesikpo Asutan), noted that the Bill was timely and will ensure decency in the state, especially during the electioneering period.
They also noted that the Bill will prevent disorderliness and double taxation by providing a clear-cut law for the advertising industry in the state.
The Bill, which was unanimously supported by lawmakers, was referred to the House Committee on Environment with a charge to report back within one month.
Also, the House received a list of six nominees from Governor Udom Emmanuel for appointment into the State Executive Council.
The nominees are Barr. Bassey Okon (Itu), Offiong Samuel Ofor (Ini), Aniefiok Isaac Nkom (Ikot Ekpene), Iniobong Edwarsd Ekong (Nsit Ubium), Bob Almond Emem (ONNA) and Engr. Camillus Essien Umoh (Essien Udim).
In his remarks, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon.Aniekan Bassey, referred the list to the House Committee on Judiciary, Justice, Human Rights and Public Petitions for further legislative action.
The House has adjourned its plenary till Wednesday, March 23, 2022.
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