Edo moves to end multiple taxation with unified market levy framework

The Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) has unveiled a harmonised tax collection framework aimed at eliminating multiple taxation, curbing illegal revenue collection and improving the ease of doing business for traders and market operators across the state.

The initiative was presented during a stakeholders’ engagement held at the EIRS headquarters in Benin City, where leaders of market associations, traders’ unions, shop owners and senior officials of the revenue agency discussed plans for a unified revenue collection system.

Speaking at the meeting, John Odior, Executive Chairman of the EIRS, said the new framework, developed in collaboration with the state’s local government councils and relevant ministries, departments and agencies, would replace the current system of multiple collections with a single, consolidated annual demand notice covering all approved state and local government levies.

According to him, designated collection teams operating through authorised and transparent payment channels will be responsible for all revenue collections, ending the practice of separate teams from different government agencies approaching traders for payments.

“The state and local government will work together as one body. Traders should no longer pay money to unauthorised collectors, as many of them operate illegally. Anyone not recognised under the new arrangement should not receive any payment,” Odior said.

During the interactive session, representatives of market associations raised concerns over duplicate tax demands, aggressive enforcement by multiple collectors and the impact of rising operating costs on businesses. They urged the government to ensure that the new tax regime remains moderate and business-friendly.

“We are willing to cooperate with the government and pay our taxes, but the implementation should have a human face so businesses can survive under the current economic realities,” a market leader said.

Responding to the concerns, Odior assured participants that the reform is designed to protect taxpayers, simplify compliance and reduce the burden on legitimate businesses.

He disclosed that implementation of the harmonised tax collection framework is scheduled to commence next month, with operational and enforcement teams to be deployed to ensure a seamless transition. moves to end multiple taxations with unified market levy framework.