Our reporter
Just days before Governor Godwin Obaseki is set to conclude his tenure, the Edo State government has quietly shifted away from its digital e-payment system for revenue collection from commercial vehicles, raising questions about transparency and accountability.
The sudden reversion to manual cash payments, reportedly without formal public notice, has introduced uncertainty among stakeholders.
Historically, the Edo State government had utilized a Point of Sale (PoS) system for revenue transactions, directing payments into official bank accounts to ensure transparency.
However, the abrupt change now requires commercial drivers to pay a cash fee of N1,600 directly to revenue agents at locations such as the Benin Central Motor Park in Obakhavbaye, Oredo Local Government Area. Drivers report that no official explanation for this shift has been communicated.
A commercial driver identified as Osabuohien remarked, “The revenue agents are still doing their jobs; we still pay the daily tax of N1,600. It’s just that PoS systems are no longer used. The government has left things a bit unclear.”
Another driver, operating on the King Square to Ugbowo route, stated that he had received no directives indicating a change in the payment system. “We haven’t heard anything official from the government,” he added.
Investigations suggest that this policy shift may be tied to recent developments concerning State finances. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) recently placed restrictions on several state government accounts, a move reportedly connected to financial misconduct allegations.
This led to the arrest of Edo State’s Accountant General, Julius O. Anelu, along with other key financial officers, after they allegedly failed to respond to multiple invitations from the EFCC.
An official EFCC letter, addressed to the Edo State Government Secretary, outlines the arrest of Anelu, Martina Osasu-Uwoghiren, Adaghe Anthony, and Okhomina Godwin. The letter noted that the four officials have been in EFCC custody since late October.
In response, Governor Obaseki, attending an education event in Abuja, remarked on the matter, emphasizing his commitment to transparency. “I’m not afraid of the EFCC. If they call, I will respond. I have nothing to hide,” he stated, adding that he believes the federal government’s recent actions are “vindictive.”
Obaseki further criticized the federal government, suggesting that it is engaging in “unnecessary and petty political tactics” rather than addressing Nigeria’s pressing economic issues. “I came into office focused on what matters, and I believe the results of our work speak for themselves,” he added.
Governor Obaseki is scheduled to leave office on November 12, 2024. Whether the State will reinstate the PoS system or continue with manual revenue collection under the next administration remains to be seen.
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