by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has issued an immediate ban on transport unions and the private firm Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd from collecting any form of revenue across the state.
The announcement was made in a statement released on Wednesday in Benin by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor. According to the statement, these groups are no longer authorized to collect levies, taxes, or dues on behalf of the government.
The decision follows growing concerns over illegal revenue collections by unions operating under false pretenses in various parts of Edo. Ikhilor noted that while some unions were previously allowed to assist the Edo Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) under strict guidelines, they have since violated those terms.
“These unions have been involved in unauthorized cash collections, intimidation, extortion, and harassment of motorists and traders,” he said.
As a result, the state government has banned the following groups from engaging in any revenue-related activities:
- National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW)
- Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN)
- ANNEWAT
- Drivers on Wheel
- Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd
“These organizations are no longer permitted to collect dues from drivers, traders, or any road users anywhere in the state,” Ikhilor emphasized.
He further stated that credible reports showed Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd had grossly abused its authority, leading to widespread extortion.
Governor Okpebholo considers such actions economic sabotage and a serious threat to public order and trust in government. Ikhilor stressed that any form of intimidation or abuse under the guise of revenue collection would no longer be tolerated.
“All union-related revenue activities are hereby suspended indefinitely, pending further directives from the Edo State Government and relevant regulatory agencies,” the statement added.
Motorists and traders are advised not to comply with any cash payment requests from these banned groups. Instead, citizens are urged to report any illegal revenue collection activities to the Edo Special Taskforce led by SP Michael Anetor via the official contact number: 08038157126.
The government has also notified the Commissioner of Police and all security agencies, authorizing them to arrest and prosecute anyone violating the new directive.