The Executive Chairman, Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS), John Odior FCA, ACTI, has restated that transporters in Edo State continue to benefit from tax incentives following the state government’s ban on the collection of transportation levies.
Mr. Odior disclosed this during a meeting with the state leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), and the Amalgamated Union of ANNEWAT.
The Chairman emphasized that the state government views the transportation sector as a critical economic driver. Consequently, tax incentives have remained in place since August, 2025. This policy, he noted, has contributed significantly to reducing cost of transportation goods and services across the state.
While reaffirming government support, Mr. Odior raised concerns regarding non-compliance among certain commercial drivers, specifically those operating without valid vehicle number plates. He called for a partnership with union leaders to ensure total compliance with registration laws to bolster state revenue, security and public safety.
He further urged union members to take advantage of the current extension for filing individual annual tax returns.
“The statutory deadline of March 30 has been extended to April 30, 2026, providing an additional window for members to file and pay their Personal Income Tax”.
The EIRS Chairman issued a stern warning against unauthorized revenue collection, stressing that no individual, group, or community is empowered to collect levies on behalf of the government.
“As we speak, collection of levies from the transport sector remains banned, and anyone found collecting illegal revenue will face the full weight of the law,” Odior stated. “Edo State government has not authorized anyone to collect transport levies. Engaging in such acts constitutes touting and extortion.”
Admonishing the union heads, the EIRS boss highlighted the importance of transparent leadership in fostering trust.
“If there is no trust between followers and leadership, the relationship will fail,” he said. “To build that trust, you must be committed and prioritize the welfare of your members. Without these elements, trust erodes.”
Earlier, the State Chairman of the NURTW, Comrade Saturday Uwame, explained that the delegation visited the Revenue House to congratulate Mr. Odior on his recent appointment as Executive Chairman of the EIRS Board. He expressed the unions’ readiness to collaborate and support the state’s revenue system through formal, legal channels.
