Cross River Government Raises Alarm Of Billboard Vandalism In Calabar Metropolis 

By Sylvia Akpan, Government House Correspondent

The Government of Cross River State has raised an alarm about billboards vandalization in Calabar metropolis, particularly along the Murtala Mohammed Highway.

In a press release with reference number CR/MOI/AD/189/VOL.IV/220, signed and made available by the Commissioner for Information, Erasmus Ekpang, warned perpetrators to fort with desist from the act.

Erasmus said the most worrisome is the fact that some of the billboards convey personal, corporate bodies as well as government advertorials to conscientize the populace on programs, policies, and pertinent activities, which the handiwork of vandals act as setbacks to the well-intended messages.

He said the public should be reminded that vandalization of billboards remains a criminal offense and punishable under the law, hence, those found guilty of such act will not only be arrested but will be prosecuted accordingly

It reads in full: “The Cross River State Government has observed with dismay the alarming rate of its billboards vandalization in the metropolis, particularly along the Murtala Muhammed Highway.

“Most worrisome is the fact that some of the billboards convey personal, corporate bodies as well as government’s advertorials to conscientize the populace on programs, policies, and pertinent activities, which the handiwork of vandals act as setbacks to the well-intended messages.

“Billboards as a means of communication convey useful information, promote local businesses and contribute immensely to the vibrancy of our City.

“Vandalism on its part, not only defaces these structures and robs the society of the information billboards convey, but negatively impacts on the aesthetics of our city.

“Be reminded that vandalization of billboards remains a criminal offense and punishable under the law, hence, those found guilty of such act will not only be arrested but will be prosecuted accordingly.

“Government hereby warns members of the public especially the vandals to desist forthwith or they will be made to face the full wrath of the law.

“To this end, law enforcement agencies have been directed to arrest and prosecute anyone caught vandalizing billboards certified by Cross River State Signage and Advertising Agency (CRISSA) across the State.”