Edo Suspends All Consultancy Services, Unlicensed Agents in Revenue Collection 

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City 

The Edo State Government, has reiterated the suspension of all non-commissioned officials in the collection of revenue.

This was as Governor Monday Okpebholo, yesterday, approved the immediate suspension of all consultants and related services providers in the state’s public service. 

Secretary to State Government (SSG), Mr. Umar Musa Ikhilor, stated this during a press briefing at his office in Government House, Benin City.

Flanked by the Chief of Staff (CoS), Mr. Gani Audu; Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Samson Osagie; and the Secretary, Edo State Revenue Service, Mrs. Sadat Abuh, the SSG said, “The attention of Edo State Government has been drawn to the continuous collection of revenue across the state by unlicensed agents and touts, who do not have the authority of government to do so.

“While the suspension of all non-commissioned officials in the collection of revenue remains in place, henceforth only statutory and licensed revenue collectors are mandated to operate and collect revenue on behalf of government, especially in motor parks and other spheres of commercial activities.

“The public is hereby notified to report any unlicensed agent to the police as government will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute those found wanting in this regard. These miscreants, their sponsors and agents are warned not to test the iron will of this government and its determination to secure the lives and property of the good people of Edo State.”

Ikhilor also, announced that Okpebholo, has approved the immediate suspension of all consultancy services and related providers in the state’s public service. 

In view of this, he said, “All financial transactions and related services with affected consultants and service providers are to be put on hold immediately, pending the submission of report by a review committee, established by the governor.” 

He added that all Accounting Officers, Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies were expected to take note and comply strictly with this directive.