The Edo State Government has arrested 10 individuals involved in unauthorized revenue collection, as part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal levies and extortion targeting drivers, traders, and market women.
The arrests were made across several locations in Benin City, including Upper Sakponba, Ring Road, Sapele Road, Oba Market, and Airport Road, following a directive issued by Governor Monday Okpebholo on August 5, 2025, banning the activities of certain unions and agents.
The affected 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., all of whom were previously given limited authorization to collaborate with the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) under strict conditions.
According to the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor, these groups flouted the ban and continued to harass and extort citizens, even resorting to violence. “The Governor acted swiftly on receiving reports of extortion and intimidation. These arrests are just the beginning,” he said.
He reiterated that only the EIRS, in collaboration with Local Government authorities and designated agents using Point-of-Sale (POS) terminals, is authorized to collect government revenue. “No cash collection is allowed under any circumstance,” Ikhilor emphasized.
The Commander of the Edo State Special Taskforce, SP Michael Anetor, who led the enforcement operation, confirmed the arrests and noted that the exercise was welcomed with jubilation by market women and traders long subjected to extortion. “The suspects will be handed over to the Commissioner of Police for prosecution. This operation will continue until full compliance is achieved,” Anetor stated.
The state government has also launched radio campaigns to educate the public about the ban and warned that ignorance will not be tolerated as an excuse for noncompliance. Citizens are encouraged to report incidents of illegal collection through the designated helpline.
Governor Okpebholo has also directed the State Taskforce, Anti-Cultism Unit, and other enforcement agencies to continue joint operations to rid the state’s revenue system of illegal practices.
