'Don't destroy businesses' - Outdoor advertisers petition government

Outdoor advertisers are urging the government to suspend the ongoing demolition of median advertising signs, warning that a total ban could have severe economic repercussions.

In a petition dated May 5, 2026, the Outdoor Advertisers Association (OAA) cautioned that this initiative, if not reevaluated, could "destroy businesses and cost jobs," drawing parallels to the impact of Ghana’s banking sector cleanup, as reported by adomonline.com on May 6, 2026.

The memorandum, addressed to the Deputy Chief of Staff and copied to key ministries, including Roads and Highways and Local Government, calls for authorities to halt the demolitions and take a more balanced approach.

“If we can regulate Okadas and train miners (galamseyers) to act responsibly, we can certainly regulate median signs. We don’t need a total ban; we need smart regulation,” the petition states.

The demolition operation, being conducted by the National Road Safety Authority in collaboration with the Local Government Ministry, has already begun in parts of Accra, leaving many operators uncertain about their future.

According to the Association, its members have invested millions of cedis into signage infrastructure, providing support to a wide network of workers, including welders, printers, graphic designers and installers.

The OAA warns that abrupt removals could lead to significant job losses and disrupt livelihoods.

Moreover, the group asserts that many of its members operate legally, with permits issued by local authorities, such as the Accra Metropolitan Assembly and other municipal assemblies.

It also notes that existing contracts with corporate clients could expose businesses to financial and legal risks if signs are suddenly removed.

While the Association acknowledges concerns about road safety, it challenges the assertion that median signs are a primary cause of accidents.

“Available national data suggests that the main causes of road accidents are driver indiscipline, excessive speeding, mechanical failures, and pedestrian behavior, rather than regulated signage infrastructure,” the petition highlights.

Instead of implementing a blanket ban, the group proposes a review of signage standards, repositioning of potentially risky structures and stricter enforcement of compliance across the industry.

Notably, the Association disclosed that it supported the National Democratic Congress during the 2024 general elections, describing itself as a “strategic partner to the State” committed to dialogue.

The petition outlines a five-point request, including an immediate halt to the demolitions, broader stakeholder consultations, and a phased plan to relocate high-risk signage.

NAD/AM

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