BENIN CITY — The Edo State Government has announced an indefinite ban on all revenue collection activities by key transport unions and a private consulting firm, citing gross violations, extortion, and harassment of the public.
In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo expressed deep concern over the “alarming resurgence” of unauthorized cash collections and social intimidation carried out in the name of revenue enforcement.
The government specifically named the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), ANNEWAT, Drivers on Wheel, and Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd as culprits in the illegal operations, stressing that their actions amounted to economic sabotage and a breach of public trust.
“These groups, some of which were given limited authorization under clearly defined terms to support the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), have since deviated from their mandates, resorting instead to extortion, harassment, and illegal cash collections,” the government said.
All forms of payment, dues, levies, or charges demanded by members of the banned unions or the private consultant are now deemed illegal.
The government warned motorists, traders, and members of the public not to comply with any such demands and urged them to report violations directly to the Edo State Special Taskforce, coordinated by SP Michael Anetor via 08038157126.
Security agencies, including the Commissioner of Police, have been put on high alert and directed to arrest and prosecute anyone or group found flouting the directive.
“The era of using unions as fronts to intimidate and extort money from drivers and road users in the name of revenue collection is over,” the statement read. “The people-loving Governor is determined to sanitize the revenue system and protect citizens from exploitation.”
