Edo Launches Revenue Court to Prosecute Tax Evaders
Edo State Introduces Revenue Court to Combat Tax Evasion
The Edo State Government has unveiled plans to establish a specialized revenue court aimed at addressing tax evasion and other revenue-related offenses. This initiative was revealed during a stakeholders’ meeting organized by the Edo State Inland Revenue Service (EIRS) in Benin City on Tuesday. The event brought together key government officials, representatives from various ministries, departments, and agencies, highlighting the importance of collaboration in strengthening the state’s financial systems.
The state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Samson Osagie, confirmed that his office is currently drafting a Revenue Court Law, drawing inspiration from Delta State’s existing framework. He emphasized the necessity of a dedicated legal structure to expedite the prosecution of tax offenders.
“There is a need for a Revenue Court Law that will see to the setting up of a specific court to try offenders,” Osagie stated. “The whole idea is to ensure that our tax system is strengthened in a way that makes enforcement and prosecution of tax offenders fast and easy.”
Osagie also pointed out that Edo State has been experiencing significant revenue losses due to boundary and settlement disputes with Delta State. Although discussions have taken place to address these issues, he stressed that the National Boundary Commission must formally approve any boundary adjustments to prevent further financial setbacks.
Revenue Losses Due to Boundary Disputes
Earlier, the Managing Director of the Edo State Traffic Management Agency, Stainless Ijeghede, highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by workers in areas like Oben. Despite working within Edo State, many oil workers in these communities still have their taxes deducted and paid to Delta State.
“When I was working at that place, at the end of the month, I saw in my pay slip that the tax was paid to Delta. What that means is that those who work in Oben pay tax to the Delta State Government,” Ijeghede said, underscoring the urgent need for resolution.
Improving Revenue Collection and Transparency
The Executive Chairman of EIRS, ‘Nidu Bankole-Balogun, emphasized that while the state has made progress in enhancing revenue collection, full cooperation from all stakeholders is essential to boost Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). He highlighted the implementation of a Single Treasury Account as a critical step toward reducing leakages, ensuring transparency, and improving accountability.
“Revenue is not an end in itself. It’s a means to enable the state to provide better roads, stronger health systems, vibrant education, and safer communities,” Bankole-Balogun said.
Setting Ambitious Tax Revenue Targets
To support its development goals, the Edo State Government has set a target of N100 billion in tax revenue for 2025. Governor Monday Okpebholo has called on citizens to fulfill their tax obligations, emphasizing that this funding is crucial for the provision of infrastructure and social amenities.
The government’s efforts reflect a broader commitment to economic stability and public service improvement. With the proposed revenue court, Edo State aims to create a more efficient and accountable system that ensures fair taxation and proper utilization of funds.
