The Advertising Association of Ghana (AAG) has raised concerns over the ongoing billboard demolition exercise in the Greater Accra Region, urging President John Dramani Mahama and the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to intervene and restore order.

In a statement released on Friday, February 13, the AAG affirmed its support for efforts to sanitise the outdoor advertising space, enhance public safety, and improve the aesthetics of urban skylines. However, the association expressed serious concerns about the manner in which the demolition exercise is being conducted.

The statement highlighted the lack of direct engagement with industry stakeholders, particularly outdoor advertising operators, before the commencement of the demolitions. It also pointed to the absence of a clearly communicated framework, including phased plans, timelines, compliance parameters, and enforcement standards.

The association further raised concerns about perceived irregularities and selective enforcement, suggesting that some actions may be influenced by political interests or by individuals within government with vested interests in parts of the advertising industry. Such practices, the AAG warned, could threaten industry stability, investor confidence, and the livelihoods of thousands of employees within the sector.

Calling for an urgent institutional reset, the AAG urged President Mahama and the Minister for Local Government to ensure transparent engagement with stakeholders, clearly define the committee’s mandate, and implement a structured, fair, and phased demolition plan that respects due process, equity, and regulatory integrity.

The association stressed that proper governance and coordinated execution are critical to achieving the objectives of public safety and improved urban aesthetics without undermining economic activity or investor confidence in the outdoor advertising industry.

“There is a need for institutional reset and proper governance. The AAG is respectfully calling on His Excellency John Mahama and the Hon. Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs to intervene and call the Committee and the Greater Accra Regional Minister to order,” the statement added.