Benin, Edo – The Edo State Government has announced a sweeping ban on illegal revenue collection activities by certain transport unions and private consultants operating in the state, citing widespread abuse of mandate, extortion, and intimidation of motorists and traders.

In a special government announcement released on Tuesday, the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo expressed grave concern over the resurgence of illegal cash collections by unions and organizations under various guises.

The government noted that while some of these groups were previously given limited authorization to collaborate with the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), they have flagrantly violated the terms of engagement.

Specifically, the government banned the activities of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), ANNEWAT, and Drivers on Wheel, stating that these groups are no longer permitted to collect any dues, levies, or charges from motorists, drivers, traders, or any member of the public in the state.

The ban also extends to Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd, a private consultant previously contracted to enforce compliance. The firm, according to the government, has been found complicit in “widespread extortion and abuse of mandate.”

The statement read, “The era of using unions as fronts to harass, intimidate, or extort drivers and road users in the name of revenue collection is over,”

The announcement, signed by Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., Secretary to the State Government, emphasized that the state considers the actions of these groups as economic sabotage, social oppression, and a direct affront to law and order.

To enforce the ban, the government has directed the Commissioner of Police and other relevant security agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone found violating the directive. It also warned individuals and groups still engaging in illegal revenue collection that the full weight of the law will be brought upon them.

Citizens are urged not to comply with any illegal levy or cash demand and are advised to report such cases to the Edo State Special Taskforce, coordinated by SP Michael Anetor, via 08038157126.

Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sanitizing the revenue system and protecting citizens from unlawful exploitation, describing himself as a “people-loving governor” who will not tolerate any form of social or economic injustice.

The announcement is seen as a major move to restore order and accountability in the state’s transportation and revenue sectors.