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Benin City – The Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) has reiterated its commitment to enforcing the Edo State Revenue Administration Law and the state’s cashless revenue collection policy, warning that any individual or group collecting taxes, levies, or fees in cash on behalf of the government is acting illegally and risks arrest and prosecution.

In a public notice issued by the agency, EIRS stated that it remains the sole authority legally empowered to assess and collect all revenues accruing to the Edo State Government. The agency emphasized that the state’s cashless policy remains the only approved framework for revenue collection.

According to the notice, any person claiming to be a government official or agent and demanding cash payments for taxes, levies, or other government charges is violating the law. Taxpayers and residents were advised to make all payments through approved digital channels and recognized banking institutions to ensure transparency and accountability.

The revenue agency also reminded the public that the Edo State Government’s ban on revenue collection in the transport sector remains in force. The prohibition covers the collection of levies and fees, as well as the unauthorized sale of jackets, stickers, baskets, bowls, and similar items to operators of buses, tricycles, motorcycles, and other transport services.

EIRS noted that the directive applies to all local government councils, unions, and transport associations operating within the state. It warned that any attempt to circumvent the ban would be treated as a criminal offence and prosecuted under existing laws.

However, the agency clarified that levies within the haulage sector have not been suspended. To ensure transparency and eliminate cash handling, it directed that all haulage payments be made exclusively through government-approved Point of Sale (POS) terminals and processed using official revenue scratch cards, with receipts issued for every transaction.

The EIRS further assured taxpayers and business owners of its commitment to creating a conducive business environment while safeguarding the interests of citizens. It urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report any illegal revenue collection activities to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

The notice was signed by the management of the Edo State Internal Revenue Service.