Only authorised officers can collect taxes, levies, Kogi warns

Kogi State is taking a firm stance against illegal revenue collection, with the State Internal Revenue Service issuing a stern warning to residents. The agency has made it clear that only duly authorized personnel are permitted to collect taxes and levies, aiming to curb the rampant extortion that has plagued motorists in various parts of the state.

The recent arrests of individuals operating unauthorized checkpoints and demanding unapproved fees highlight the severity of the problem. These operators, under the guise of collecting environmental, forestry, or federal haulage fees, were essentially engaging in illegal extortion. The Kogi State IRS, through its Public Relations Officer, Muhammed Mukhtar, has emphasized that any roadside collection outside the official arrangement is illegal and will be treated as such.

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Only duly authorised officers are permitted to collect taxes and levies on behalf of the government.

This crackdown is a crucial step towards sanitizing the state's revenue system. By urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, the agency is empowering citizens to be part of the solution. The commitment to ensuring all collections are channeled through approved government means is vital for the state's financial integrity and for fostering a more transparent and accountable revenue administration. The individuals apprehended will face prosecution, sending a clear message that such illicit activities will not be tolerated.

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Any roadside collection outside this arrangement is illegal and will be treated as extortion.