By Moses Uchenna
Members of the Ebonyi State Board of Internal Revenue (IRB), in collaboration with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), apprehended five suspected illegal revenue collectors at the International Market in Abakaliki.
The suspects were arrested during a raid conducted in various locations within the market, where they were reportedly collecting unauthorized taxes from traders. Among the items seized were receipts and cash collected from vulnerable market women and children selling sachet water, vegetables, and other small goods.
The raid sparked jubilation among traders, who had previously raised concerns over the illicit revenue collection practices by individuals posing as government officials. Many of the women recounted to journalists that these illegal collectors demanded between N50 and N100 daily, threatening to confiscate their goods if they did not comply.
Emmanuel Elechi, the leader of the Revenue Board team and head of ICT, stated that the arrests were prompted by frequent violations of Governor Nwifuru’s directive, which exempts petty traders and vegetable sellers from tax payments. He emphasized, “We are committed to eradicating illegal revenue collection that tarnishes the board’s reputation. We will adhere strictly to the governor’s directive, allowing petty traders and vegetable sellers to operate without tax burdens.”
Elechi highlighted that the governor’s decision reflects an understanding of the hardships faced by the poor and aims to alleviate their struggles. He warned, “We will continue to apprehend and prosecute those undermining this gesture for personal gain.”
In addition, the Board has initiated the automation of e-ticketing for commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators to mitigate crime and prevent revenue leakages in the state. The initiative was launched by Chief Christopher Omo-Isu, Chairman of the State Revenue Board.
Omo-Isu stated that the profiling of commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators will help reduce crime and eliminate double taxation. He explained, “This new innovation will minimize touting in markets, streets, and major roads. Operators must register at designated points within two weeks, after which enforcement will begin.”
He added, “Any commercial motorcyclist or tricycle operator involved in criminal activities will be tracked, arrested, and prosecuted. This measure aims to enhance safety and order in our revenue collection efforts, reducing conflicts between operators and touts.”
This crackdown on illegal revenue collection and the introduction of e-ticketing signify a significant step towards ensuring fair revenue practices and enhancing the welfare of the state’s traders.