The Edo State Government has imposed an indefinite ban on revenue collection activities by several transport unions and a private firm over allegations of extortion, harassment, and gross misconduct.

In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor, the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo condemned the “alarming resurgence” of unauthorized cash collections and acts of intimidation carried out under the guise of revenue enforcement.

The statement identified 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 groups involved in these illegal activities.

“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.

Describing the activities of the affected organizations as economic sabotage and a betrayal of public trust, the government warned that all forms of payment, dues, levies, or charges demanded by these unions or the private consultant are now considered illegal.

It urged motorists, traders, and members of the public to resist any such demands and report violations to the Edo State Special Taskforce, coordinated by SP Michael Anetor, via 08038157126.

Security agencies, including the Commissioner of Police, have been placed on high alert and instructed to arrest and prosecute anyone or group found violating 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.”