The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Tuesday inaugurated the newly constituted Advertising Offences Tribunal, charging members to carry out their duties with integrity, independence and fairness.
Blueprint reports that the Tribunal, headed by Honourable Justice Cecilia M. A. Olatoregun, was part of efforts by the federal government to strengthen regulation, promote professionalism and ensure greater integrity in Nigeria’s advertising and marketing communications industry.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Tribunal in Abuja, Idris described the development as an important step towards building a more professional and responsible advertising industry.
“Let us build an advertising industry that commands creativity, earns trust, and upholds responsibility,” Idris said.
The Minister said the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) Act No. 23 of 2022 expanded the Council’s regulatory powers and provided for the establishment of the Tribunal to adjudicate offences under the Act and relevant advertising regulations and codes.
“Every matter that comes before you should be considered on its merits, without fear or favour, affection or ill will. The Tribunal must be, and must be seen to be, a fair and impartial institution,” he said.
Speaking earlier, the Director-General of the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Olalekan Olumuyiwa Fadolapo, described the inauguration as a major step in strengthening regulation and compliance in the advertising industry.
“The Advertising Offences Tribunal is a big opportunity for the Nigerian advertising industry. It is the first of its kind in the world because Nigeria has taken a proactive step not only to legislate on advertising, but also to put structures and frameworks in place,” he said.
Justice Olatoregun pledged that the new panel would discharge its responsibilities with integrity, fairness and professionalism.
Other members of the Tribunal are Musa Ahmed Attah, SAN; Merga Tyowanan Kachina Esq; Dr. Ken Onyeali Ikpe; and Hajia Sa’a Ibrahim.