The Edo State government has announced an immediate ban on the activities of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), ANNEWAT, and Drivers on Wheels within the state.
In a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, these unions are no longer permitted to collect any fees, levies, taxes, or charges from motorists, drivers, traders, or members of the public in Edo State.
Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo’s administration cited growing concerns over the increase in unauthorized revenue collection by these groups.
While some unions had limited approval to work with the Edo State Internal Revenue Service, they have breached agreements by engaging in extortion, harassment, and intimidation tactics.
The ban also applies to Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd, a private consultancy previously engaged to ensure compliance, due to their involvement in extensive extortion activities.
The government has denounced these practices as acts of economic sabotage and social oppression, declaring an end to the use of unions as fronts for illegal revenue collection.
Motorists and the public are advised not to pay any unauthorized charges and to report any infractions to the Edo State Special Taskforce at 08038157126. Security forces have been ordered to apprehend and prosecute offenders.
Edo State remains dedicated to overhauling its revenue collection system and safeguarding citizens from exploitation. The government warns that anyone found violating this ban will face strict legal consequences.
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