Dennis Gabriel
Abuja, Nigeria – The Edo State Government has shut down five revenue-collecting entities—including four major transport unions and a private firm—over widespread extortion rackets allegedly siphoning millions of naira from motorists under illegal levies.
In a statement issued Wednesday, Secretary to the State Government, Osarodion Umar Ikhilor, announced the immediate ban of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), ANNEWAT, Drivers on Wheels, and Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd, a private compliance consultant. “The activities of these unions have become a source of social harassment, economic sabotage and gross violation of the conditions of their engagement,” the statement read.
Ikhilor say the decision follows an internal audit and multiple public complaints detailing coercive tolls at garages, parks, and checkpoints. No fewer than 10,000 road users reportedly fell victim monthly to unregulated fees, costing the state both revenue and public trust. “Security agencies have been directed to arrest and prosecute anyone found violating this order,” Ikhilor said, warning that enforcement would be strict.
Residents and transporters are urged to avoid paying any cash levies and report extortion cases to the Edo Special Taskforce hotline via SP Michael Anetor on 08038157126.
