The Edo State Government on Wednesday announced an immediate ban on the activities of four major transport unions over their alleged involvement in illegal revenue collection and harassment of road users.
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, the state government said it was compelled to take the action following credible reports of widespread extortion, cash collection, and intimidation by union members acting under various guises.
The banned unions include the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), ANNEWAT, and Drivers on Wheels. Their activities have been suspended indefinitely.
Also affected is Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd, a private consultancy firm previously engaged to help enforce compliance with state revenue laws. The government accused the firm of grossly abusing its mandate and participating in the extortion of motorists.
“The Edo State Government, under the leadership of Senator Monday Okpebholo, has observed with grave concern the alarming resurgence of illegal revenue collection by certain unions and organisations under various guises across the state,” the statement read.
“It has become clear that some of these groups, previously given limited authorisation to collaborate with the Edo State Internal Revenue Service under clearly defined terms, have grossly violated the conditions of their engagement.”
The government said the activities of the unions amounted to economic sabotage, social oppression, and a direct affront to law and order.
“No individual or group under any of these unions is permitted to collect any form of dues, levies, taxes, or charges from motorists, drivers, traders, or any member of the public in Edo State,” the statement stressed.
Motorists and road users have been strongly advised not to pay any cash or comply with any levy imposed by the banned groups. Citizens have also been urged to report illegal activities to the Edo State Special Taskforce via SP Michael Anetor on 08038157126.
The government said it had informed the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone found violating the directive.
Reaffirming its commitment to sanitising the state’s revenue collection system, the government issued a stern warning: “Let this serve as a final warning to all parties engaged in or considering such illegal activities: the full weight of the law will be brought upon you.”
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