Kogi Cracks Down On Illegal Highway Tax Collection
The Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) has announced a statewide clampdown on illegal tax and revenue collection on highways, warning that offenders will face arrest and prosecution under Nigeria’s new tax law.
The Executive Chairman of KGIRS, Dr. Salihu Sule Enehe, issued the warning on Sunday in Lokoja while explaining the provisions of the tax reform that took effect on January 1, 2026.
Enehe said the new law prohibits all forms of unauthorised revenue collection on highways, describing the practice as unlawful and harmful to economic growth and the smooth movement of goods and services.
He warned that individuals or groups operating illegal roadblocks or collecting taxes without legal authority would be regarded as criminals and economic saboteurs.
According to him, the state government will no longer tolerate activities that disrupt trade or undermine the country’s tax administration system.
The KGIRS chairman noted that anyone found violating the new tax regime would be prosecuted in accordance with the law, adding that the reform is aimed at eliminating multiple taxation, improving the ease of doing business and promoting a more transparent revenue collection process.
He also disclosed that the sale of revenue emblems and the collection of haulage fees on highways have been abolished under the new tax framework.
Enehe explained that legitimate haulage charges can now only be collected at designated loading and off-loading points, a measure intended to align Nigeria’s tax administration with international best practices while easing the burden on transporters and businesses.
He urged transport operators, business owners and members of the public to comply with the new regulations and report any incidents of illegal tax collection to the appropriate authorities.
The KGIRS boss reaffirmed the Kogi State Government’s commitment to building a transparent, business-friendly tax system that will strengthen investor confidence, improve internally generated revenue through lawful means and protect legitimate businesses and citizens.
