The Edo State Government has announced an immediate and indefinite ban on revenue collection activities by certain transport unions and a private consultant, citing widespread extortion, harassment, and violation of official mandates.
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., the government said it was alarmed by the resurgence of illegal cash collections and intimidation of citizens by groups acting under the guise of revenue enforcement.
The banned groups include the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), ANNEWAT, Drivers on Wheel, and Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd, a private consultancy firm previously engaged to support compliance with tax regulations.
“These organizations are no longer authorized to collect any dues, levies, taxes, or charges from motorists, drivers, traders, or any member of the public in Edo State,” the statement said.
The government accused the banned entities of violating the terms of their engagement with the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), engaging in unlawful cash transactions, and fostering an environment of extortion and intimidation.
Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo, described as “people-loving” in the statement, has directed that:
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No individual or group under the banned unions should collect payments from road users.
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All motorists and citizens are advised not to comply with any illegal levy or cash payment demands.
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Reports of such activities should be forwarded to the Edo State Special Taskforce, coordinated by SP Michael Anetor on 08038157126.
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The Commissioner of Police and other security agencies have been instructed to arrest and prosecute violators of the directive.
The government described the actions of the banned groups as economic sabotage and a breach of public trust. It reaffirmed its commitment to sanitizing the state’s revenue system and protecting residents from unlawful exploitation.
“This is a final warning. The era of unions fronting for illegal collections is over. Anyone found violating this order will face the full weight of the law,” the statement concluded.
