Benin City, Edo State (August 6, 2025) – The Edo State government, under the leadership of Senator Monday Okpebholo, has taken decisive action against illegal revenue collection by banning the activities of several transport unions, including the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), ANNEWAT, and Drivers on Wheels. The ban, effective immediately, prohibits these unions from collecting any form of dues, levies, taxes, or charges from motorists, drivers, traders, or any member of the public within the state.

In a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, the government expressed grave concern over the resurgence of illegal revenue collection by these unions. The statement further explained that these groups had violated the conditions of their engagement with the Edo State Internal Revenue Service, resorting to cash collections, extortions, social harassment, and intimidation.

The ban extends to Atalakpa Recovery Concept Ltd, a private consultant previously engaged to enforce compliance, due to credible reports indicating their complicity in widespread extortion and abuse of mandate.

The government has deemed these actions as acts of economic sabotage, social oppression, and a direct affront to law and order. The statement emphasized that the era of using unions as fronts to harass, intimidate, or extort drivers and road users in the name of revenue collection is over.

The Edo State government has issued a stern warning that no individual or group under any of these unions is permitted to collect any form of payment from motorists or road users. Motorists, drivers, and road users are strongly advised not to pay any cash or comply with any form of illegal levy imposed by these banned entities. Any such illegal activity should be reported immediately to the Edo State Special Taskforce, coordinated by SP Michael Anetor, at 08038157126.

The Commissioner of Police and all relevant security agencies have been directed to arrest and prosecute any individual or group found violating this directive.

The Edo State government reiterated its commitment to sanitizing the revenue system and protecting its citizens from unlawful exploitation. The government warned that the full weight of the law will be brought upon any parties engaged in or considering such illegal activities.

In a surprising turn of events, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reduced the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, at its retail outlets, just 48 hours after a price increase.

As of Wednesday morning, August 6, 2025, the price at several NNPCL stations in Abuja, including those in Gwarinpa, Kubwa Expressway, Wuse Zone 6, and Wuse Zone 4, has been reduced from ₦955 to ₦900 per litre.

A fuel attendant at an NNPCL outlet in Abuja confirmed the price adjustment, stating that the price on Tuesday was ₦955 per litre, but has now dropped to ₦900. This represents a ₦55 per litre decrease following Monday’s hike.

While NNPCL has taken the lead in reducing prices, some independent marketers have followed suit, albeit not as drastically. Ranoil and Empire Energy stations in Gwarinpa are now selling petrol at ₦955 and ₦950 per litre, respectively, down from ₦971 and ₦970. However, MRS filling stations have maintained their pump price at ₦885.

The earlier price increase had been attributed to a spike in ex-depot prices, particularly from Dangote Refinery and other private depots.

It remains to be seen whether NNPCL’s downward review will trigger a broader reduction across the country’s filling stations. Consumers continue to express concern over the unstable fuel pricing, which has further strained transportation and living costs nationwide.

In a developing story, the Kwara State Police Command has launched an investigation into allegations against some police officers who extorted N200,000 from a student of Offa Polytechnic. The incident has sparked concern and calls for accountability within the police force.

According to reports, the student was reportedly targeted by the officers during a routine check, but instead of following proper procedures, they allegedly demanded a bribe to avoid further harassment. The victim later reported the incident to the authorities, prompting an internal investigation.

The police in Kwara State have assured the public that they do not condone such behavior and are committed to restoring public trust through transparent investigations. The officers involved are currently being scrutinized, and if found culpable, they could face disciplinary action, including dismissal.

This case highlights ongoing issues of police misconduct and extortion that have often plagued various regions in Nigeria. It also underscores the importance of community and individual vigilance to ensure that law enforcement agencies act within the bounds of the law.

As the investigation unfolds, many are hopeful for justice and a renewed commitment to integrity within the police force. The Kwara State Police Command has urged anyone with additional information regarding the incident to come forward to aid the investigation.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for continued oversight and reform in Nigeria’s law enforcement institutions, ensuring that officers serve and protect citizens without abuse of power.