Kwara State cracks down on illegal roadblocks and fee collection

The Kwara State government in Nigeria is taking a firm stance against unauthorized roadblocks and the collection of haulage fees, signaling a crackdown on illegal revenue generation activities. The state administration has issued a stern warning to individuals, transport unions, and other groups involved in these practices, stating that they risk severe sanctions.

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The introduction of the digital platform is in line with the ongoing tax reforms aimed at modernizing revenue administration, promoting ease of doing business and eliminating illegal and multiple collections.

This move comes as the Kwara State Internal Revenue Service (KW-IRS) begins the implementation of a new digital haulage fee payment system. This initiative is part of broader tax reforms designed to boost revenue collection, eliminate redundant levies, and foster a more business-friendly environment within the state. The digital platform is now operational for all haulage operators and transporters across Kwara.

Shade Omoniyi, the Executive Chairman of KW-IRS, explained that the new system replaces the traditional roadside fee collection methods, aiming to increase transparency, accountability, and efficiency. "The introduction of the digital platform is in line with the ongoing tax reforms aimed at modernizing revenue administration, promoting ease of doing business and eliminating illegal and multiple collections," Omoniyi stated. A key aspect of these reforms is the discontinuation of roadblocks and unauthorized checkpoints for revenue purposes.

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A key provision of the reforms is the discontinuation of roadblocks and other unauthorised checkpoints for the purpose of revenue collection.

Under the new digital system, transporters will no longer pay fees to individuals stationed along highways. All haulage fees will be processed electronically, ensuring a more secure and accountable transaction process. To facilitate this transition, KW-IRS has re-engaged consultants to manage the registration of haulage operators, issue official haulage tags, and oversee the digital payment platform. Registration is mandatory for all operators.

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Rather, the process has now been fully digitalised to ensure transparency, accountability, efficiency and seamless compliance.

The government emphasized that no unauthorized official, transport union, or association is permitted to erect roadblocks or collect haulage fees on any road within Kwara State. Any person or group found violating these regulations will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. Transporters and taxpayers are urged to comply with the new system, with KW-IRS offices available for clarification and assistance.

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All haulage operators are required to register and obtain a haulage tag which serves as the official means of identification.