Only authorised officers can collect taxes, levies, Kogi warns

The Kogi State Internal Revenue Service has warned that only duly authorised officers are allowed to collect taxes and levies in the state, cautioning residents against illegal revenue operators.

The warning follows recent arrests of individuals accused of mounting illegal roadblocks and extorting money from motorists under the guise of official tax collection in parts of the state.

According to the agency’s Public Relations Officer, Muhammed Mukhtar’s post on the Joint Revenue Board’s X handle on Tuesday, the suspects were apprehended in different locations, including Ajegwu in Ofu Local Government Area, Ejule, and Ajaokuta, where they allegedly operated unauthorised checkpoints.

He said the individuals were collecting various charges from motorists under different names, including “Environmental and Forestry fees” and “federal haulage,” which were not approved by the government.

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

“Any roadside collection outside this arrangement is illegal and will be treated as extortion,” he said.

The revenue service urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities involving illegal tax collectors.

It reaffirmed its commitment to sanitising the revenue system and ensuring that all collections are carried out strictly through approved government channels.

The agency confirmed that those arrested will be prosecuted in accordance with the law, warning that the state will not tolerate acts capable of undermining lawful revenue administration.

Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.

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