The  and the  have agreed to strengthen collaboration in combating tax fraud and boosting revenue generation in Edo State.

The agreement was reached on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Internal Revenue Service, Mr. John Odior, to the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC in Benin City.

Speaking during the visit, Odior said the partnership had become necessary to identify and prosecute tax evaders, as well as bring more residents into the tax net.

According to him, the collaboration would help track individuals who either evade taxes completely, underpay, or are not captured in the state’s tax database.

“When you arrest a suspect, ask for evidence of tax payment or tax clearance certificate. You can also write to us to verify whether such a person has been paying taxes, and we will provide the necessary information,” he said.

He noted that improved information sharing between both agencies would enhance tax compliance and increase internally generated revenue for the state government.

Responding, the Acting Zonal Director of the Benin Zonal Directorate of the EFCC, Deputy Commander of the EFCC, DCE Sa’ad Hanafi Sa’ad, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to sustaining its collaboration with the EIRS.

He disclosed that the Commission has a dedicated Tax Fraud Section responsible for handling tax-related offences, stressing that taxation remains a critical source of government revenue.

“We have a Tax Fraud Section that handles issues relating to taxes. The Commission recognises the importance of taxation as a major source of revenue for government, and we ensure that those who evade tax payments face the consequences of their actions,” he said.

Sa’ad assured the EIRS of the Commission’s continued support, adding that the EFCC remains open to sharing intelligence and providing assistance whenever required.