The Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, has announced an indefinite suspension of the activities of several transport unions and revenue-collecting entities across the state.
This decisive action affects the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), ANNEWAT, and Drivers on Wheel.
The Governor also banned the operations of Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd, a private revenue enforcement firm linked to the State Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tony Kabaka.
According to a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, the directive follows a wave of credible reports indicating a resurgence of illegal revenue collection and growing public complaints about extortion, intimidation, and harassment by members of these unions and the private firm.
The state government noted that while some of these unions had been granted limited authorization to collaborate with the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) under strict guidelines, they grossly violated the terms of engagement. These groups reportedly reverted to unauthorized cash collections, thereby engaging in acts of social oppression and economic sabotage.
The statement emphasized: “The government considers these actions a betrayal of the trust reposed in them and an affront to law and order. The era of using unions as a cover to harass, intimidate, or extort road users in the name of revenue collection is over.”
Effective immediately, all activities of the affected unions and Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd are suspended. No individual or group affiliated with these entities is permitted to collect levies, dues, taxes, or any form of charges from motorists, drivers, traders, or any member of the public in Edo State.
Motorists and residents have been strongly warned not to make any cash payments or comply with illegal levies imposed by the banned unions. The government urges the public to report any attempts of such extortion to the Edo State Special Taskforce, coordinated by SP Michael Anetor, via 08038157126.
To ensure full enforcement, the Commissioner of Police and other relevant security agencies have been directed to apprehend and prosecute any individual or group found violating this directive.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reforming the state’s revenue system and protecting citizens from unlawful exploitation.
“Let this serve as a final warning to all individuals and organizations engaged in or contemplating such illegal acts — the full weight of the law will be applied,” the statement concluded.