Benue IRS reports 35 illegal tax collectors facing prosecution
Emmanuel Agena, the Acting Chairman of Benue State Internal Revenue Service, revealed that 35 individuals involved in illegal tax collection in the state are currently undergoing prosecution.
He mentioned that the agency aims to generate over N16bn in revenue for the year 2024.
Addressing journalists on Monday, the acting head of BIRS also highlighted that the board exceeded its N14bn target in 2023.
Agena expressed concern over the activities of illegal tax collectors in the state, stating that many of them are supported by influential figures.
He emphasized that during his tenure, the practice of favoring politicians had ceased.
The BIRS chief expressed disapproval of a recent event where youths in Aliade, Gwer East, hijacked a truck transporting palliatives from Adamawa to Anambra State.
He stated, “A truck was intercepted, the driver was assaulted, the vehicle's windscreen was shattered, and over N200,000 was stolen. Three individuals have been apprehended and are currently in police custody. They will undergo thorough investigation upon transfer to the DSS.
“Our goal is to eradicate or significantly reduce the presence of illegal tax collectors. Already, 35 individuals involved in illegal tax collection have been apprehended and are facing legal proceedings.
“This has presented a significant challenge. We have established a task force led by the Director of Tax Collection. Notable figures within the state are implicated in promoting these activities among these individuals.”
The BIRS chief further outlined the agency's plan to recover over N5.6bn in ground rent, noting collaboration with the state's Ministry of Land for this purpose.
“We have also enlisted the assistance of Softnet, an ICT company, to facilitate revenue collection. They operate on a commission basis. The company has deployed over 250 trained staff equipped with Point of Sale systems for revenue collection.
“Taxation hinges on trust. Our current efforts are bolstered by taxpayers' willingness to contribute, as they witness the government's tangible initiatives,” he concluded.
Leave A Comment