The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has recently made it clear that it will not condone any violations of the Nigeria Code of Advertising and the ARCON Act by stakeholders.

The Apex body has observed a concerning increase in misinformation, disinformation, exaggeration, unsubstantiated claims, unverified promises, and brand hype from advertising agencies, skit makers, influencers, and brand owners.

This behavior ARCON said is not only worrisome but has also resulted in financial losses and health issues for some individuals. It is crucial for all parties involved to adhere strictly to the regulations set forth by ARCON in order to maintain integrity in the advertising industry.

ARCON noted that it is concerned by the negative impact that the violations caused on the Nigeria advertising Landscape and the nation’s economy.

In a press statement issued by the Apex body signed by Dr. Lekan Fadolapo, Director General of ARCON said the council has received numerous complaints about the dissemination of misleading information, falsities and unsubstantiated claims by various stakeholders in the advertising industry.

The statement read: “This is to reiterate that all advertisements and advertising in Nigeria or targeted at the Nigerian market must align and conform with the Nigerian Code of Advertising and other pronouncements of ARCON in line with the ARCON Act.” 

“Continued abuse of the advertising space by some stakeholders will no longer be tolerated as this has a negative effect on the economy in particular and to the citizens at large.”

The statement continued, ARCON will seek to prosecute any person or corporate body who sponsor, cause to be exposed, create or expose unapproved advertisement to any medium without approval of the Advertising Standard Panel (ASP).