The Edo State Government has prohibited the direct collection of revenue in cash, emphasizing its commitment to streamlining revenue processes and eliminating extortion.
This directive was disclosed in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Umar Ikhilor, on Tuesday in Benin City.
Ikhilor reiterated the earlier ban on unlicensed agents and touts from engaging in revenue collection across the state, adding that security agencies have been put on alert to enforce compliance.

“Any person or group of persons that violates this order will face the full wrath of the law,” he warned.
He further explained that the decision to recognize only licensed agents of the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) aims to protect citizens from extortion and safeguard the integrity of revenue collection processes.
“The Edo State Government wishes to recall the earlier ban on unlicensed agents and touts from revenue collection across the state.
The directive, which only recognizes Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) licensed agents, was to ensure the protection of the citizenry from any form of extortion and safeguard state revenue collection processes from leakage,” Ikhilor stated.
He noted that the revenue collection system in the state would strictly follow the existing template developed by the EIRS in collaboration with local government councils and various associations.
“On the strength of the above, the state government has sternly placed a serious ban on direct cash collection in respect of revenue collection in the state.
Security agents have been put on alert, and any person or group who decides to flout this directive will be held accountable,” the statement added.
The state government urged citizens and stakeholders to adhere strictly to the directive, emphasizing its resolve to ensure transparency and efficiency in revenue administration.
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