FG Inaugurates Advertising Offences Tribunal to Tackle Media Debt and Industry Fraud

 

The Federal Government has constituted a specialized Advertising Offences Tribunal aimed at curbing fraudulent practices, regulatory violations, and systemic non-payment for media placements across Nigeria’s marketing communications ecosystem.  

Inaugurating the tribunal in Abuja, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated that the creation of the panel marks a decisive step in enforcing compliance with the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) Act No. 23 of 2022.  

Chaired by Judge Emeritus of the Federal High Court, Hon. Justice Cecilia M. A. Olatoregun, the five-member tribunal has full statutory authority to try and adjudicate offences specified under the ARCON Act and its associated codes.  

"The era of corporate entities placing advertisements on media platforms and refusing to honor financial commitments is over," Idris declared. "This tribunal provides a specialized judicial mechanism to resolve industry disputes without unnecessary delays, protecting media owners, encouraging fair competition, and safeguarding consumer rights."  

The tribunal panel brings together veterans from the bench, legal practice, and corporate media, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria Musa Ahmed Attah, Merga Tyowanan Kachina, Dr. Ken Onyeali Ikpe, and Hajia Sa’a Ibrahim.  

The Minister urged panel members to discharge their duties with absolute independence, integrity, and strict adherence to due process.