The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered an end to illegal tax collection by Agbero (touts) in the state. This decision comes as part of his efforts to reduce transportation costs, which have been made worse by these illegal levies on drivers.
Governor Okpebholo has instructed the Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) to take over tax collection, ensuring that all payments go directly to the government for road maintenance and other public services.
Tony Kabaka, a government representative leading the enforcement of this directive, has condemned the activities of illegal tax collectors, stating that they make more money than the government while blaming the government for economic hardships. "It is bad that some people are the problem of our society but put blames on the government. It must stop," Kabaka said.
With his team, Kabaka has begun operations, moving from one motor park to another across different local governments to stop illegal tax collection as his team arrested some illegal tax collectors. At Obakhawaye, while speaking to transport managers and drivers, he explained that the goal is to make Edo a better place for everyone.
Kabaka also pleaded with drivers to reduce transport fares for passengers now that illegal levies have been removed. "Let’s make life easier for everyone. Pay government revenue so we can protect you. The government loves her people and will do anything to protect your rights," he assured.
Unfortunately, Kabaka was disappointed for seeing some ticketers displaying laziness for being absent at his duty post "Those appointed to be collecting revenue for the government are not at their position and this is around 11am, does it mean they resumed by 10am and leave by 11am, this is bad, we'll replace them by the ones that will be serious, government work must not suffer" He concluded
He further emphasized that Edo people must be free from oppression and unfair transportation costs, adding that Governor Monday Okpebholo is working hard to bring relief to the people.
With this new action, the Okpebholo administration is set to restore order, reduce transport fares, and create a fair business environment for all Edo residents.
