Gov. Obaseki of Edo State

Jethro Ibileke/Benin

It was a sad new year for private tax collectors in Edo State, contracted during the administration of immediate past Governor Adams Oshiomhole to collect levies for the State Government. Governor Godwin Obaseki announced ban of their activities on Sunday morning in his new year state-wide broadcast aired on radio and television stations.

“I must quickly mention that one issue that continues to agitate Edo people is the lawless activities of some individuals who persist in harassing and extorting innocent citizens under the guise of collecting taxes and levies.

“The laws of our country vests the responsibility for collecting taxes exclusively on the 3-tiers of government, that is, Federal, State and Local Governments.

“Consequently, with effect from today, January 1, 2017, only employees of government can collect taxes and levies in Edo state.

“All arrangements to collect taxes or levies entered into by any state or local government agency in Edo state, ceases to be valid with effect from today,” he said.

The Governor therefore urged citizens of the State not to heed to any form of intimidation from any quarters, but said any person or group of persons “being harassed by these illegal non etities over tax should call or alert law enforcement agencies if they find anyone involved in such nefarious activities.