The Edo State Government has imposed an indefinite ban on all forms of revenue collection by transport unions and certain private entities across the state. The directive, issued by Governor Monday Okpebholo, takes immediate effect.
The decision affects key transport unions including the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), ANNEWAT, Drivers on Wheel, and Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd, a private firm owned by Tony Kabaka Adun, the All Progressives Congress (APC) State Youth Leader.
Crackdown on Illegal Levies
According to a statement released by the state government, the ban follows mounting reports of extortion, harassment, and intimidation of motorists, commercial drivers, and traders by agents of these organizations.
Although some of the affected groups had previously been authorized to assist the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) under regulated terms, the government accused them of violating the agreement by collecting levies through coercion and operating outside approved guidelines.
Governor Okpebholo described the situation as “economic sabotage” and a threat to public trust in governance. “Our administration will not tolerate acts of lawlessness disguised as revenue collection. We are committed to protecting the rights of residents and creating a conducive environment for commerce,” he said.
Security and Enforcement
The Governor has directed all law enforcement agencies in the state to arrest and prosecute anyone found collecting taxes, dues, or any form of levies on behalf of the banned unions or firms.
To ensure compliance, a special task force led by SP Michael Anetor has been deployed. Residents are encouraged to report any cases of illegal collection to the task force via the official hotline: 0803 815 7126.
Call to Action
Motorists, traders, and the general public have been strongly advised not to make any payments to these banned groups. Only the Edo State Internal Revenue Service and its officially designated agents are authorized to collect taxes and levies.
The government emphasized its commitment to sanitizing revenue collection in the state, ensuring that all processes remain transparent, accountable, and within the confines of the law.
For further inquiries or to report violations, citizens may contact the Edo State Task Force or visit the official EIRS website.
