Emmanuel Agena, the Acting Chairman of the Benue State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS), has disclosed that 35 individuals implicated in illegal tax collection activities in the state are currently undergoing prosecution.
Agena revealed that the BIRS has set an ambitious revenue target of over N16 billion for the year 2024, building on the successful surpassing of its N14 billion target in 2023. Addressing journalists on Monday, he expressed concern over the prevalence of illegal tax collection, particularly noting the backing of influential figures in some cases.
He emphasized his administration’s commitment to ending the era of political patronage in tax collection, aiming to substantially reduce unlawful tax collection activities. Agena also condemned the recent hijacking of a truck carrying palliatives from Adamawa to Anambra State by youths in Aliade, Gwer East, revealing that three suspects have been apprehended in connection with the incident.
“A truck was intercepted, the driver assaulted, and the vehicle’s windscreen smashed, with over N200,000 stolen. Three individuals have been detained and are under police custody pending transfer to the Department of State Services (DSS) for comprehensive investigation.
“We are determined to eliminate or significantly reduce illegal tax collection activities. Currently, 35 individuals involved in such activities have been arrested and are facing prosecution. This has posed a significant challenge, prompting us to establish a dedicated team led by the Director of Tax Collection. Unfortunately, influential figures in the state have been found to encourage these illicit activities,” he explained.
35 illegal tax collectors facing prosecution – Benue IRS
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