Edo State’s newly inaugurated Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has enacted a sweeping suspension on all forms of revenue collection within the state, particularly targeting motor parks and other major public spaces. This suspension, effective immediately, will hold until further notice, as the Governor aims to address longstanding issues surrounding the revenue collection system.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Hon. Fred Itua, the Governor stressed that anyone defying this directive will be met with arrest. He tasked the Edo State Commissioner of Police to enforce this suspension rigorously, warning that any individual or group found collecting revenue on behalf of the state government will face legal action.
Governor Okpebholo affirmed, “Revenue collection across Edo State has been halted. Anyone seen engaging in this activity will be subject to arrest. The Commissioner of Police has been directed to uphold this order with immediate effect. The concerns surrounding revenue collection will be reviewed in due course, and new guidelines will be established.”
Governor Okpebholo, who assumed office on Tuesday following his inauguration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, succeeded Godwin Obaseki after his eight-year tenure. The Governor’s ceremony drew considerable support, with his oath of office being followed by a spirited tour of the stadium where he received cheers from the crowd.
The decision to suspend revenue collection follows his campaign promise to reform the management of public funds in Edo State, focusing on transparency and reducing potential exploitations within revenue channels. Residents have expressed a mix of optimism and curiosity regarding how the new administration’s policies will address the controversial and often disputed revenue practices within the state.
Governor Okpebholo’s approach suggests he is set on introducing a more transparent and regulated system that prioritizes fair practices for Edo’s residents and aligns with the interests of the state.
