Joint Revenue Board Teams Up with Police to Eradicate Illegal Roadblocks and Boost Tax Compliance

The Joint Revenue Board (JRB) has established a partnership with the Nigerian Police Force with the objective of eradicating illegal tax collection activities and dismantling unauthorized roadblocks across the country.

During a significant meeting with high-ranking police officials, JRB executive secretary Segun Adesokan highlighted the board's mission to ensure consistent, clear, and effective revenue management throughout Nigeria.

Mr. Adesokan reiterated that current tax reform efforts, spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu, are designed to foster equity and economic advancement. The focus is on taxing economic success and profits, rather than penalizing the less affluent or discouraging investment.

The executive secretary mentioned that a key aspect of these reforms involves prohibiting illicit tax collection methods that have historically burdened citizens and businesses, particularly along transportation routes.

He recalled that the JRB had previously issued a directive at its 158th meeting in December 2025, banning the establishment of roadblocks for tax and levy collection and the use of unapproved tax stickers nationwide.

Further reinforcing this directive, Mr. Adesokan stated that a Model Harmonized Taxes and Levies Act has been adopted by 15 State Houses of Assembly and is under review in others. This legislation specifically addresses and criminalizes cash-based tax collection, illegal roadblocks, and the engagement of unauthorized entities in revenue collection on public roads.

"These illicit activities not only cause distress to the public but also substantially increase the cost of goods and services, as transport operators are compelled to pass on these illegal charges to consumers," Mr. Adesokan remarked.

Solution

To tackle this issue, the JRB has proposed the formation of a joint national task force, in conjunction with the Nigerian Police Force. This task force will operate nationwide, cooperating with revenue authorities to identify, dismantle, and prosecute individuals involved in illegal tax operations.

Responding on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, DIG Finance and Administration Mohammed Abdul Suleiman welcomed the proposal and pledged the force's full support for the JRB's objectives.

The police force acknowledged the economic and security implications posed by illegal roadblocks. They assured that Police Commissioners in all states would fully cooperate with the Board and the Chairmen of Sub-National Tax Authorities in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to put an end to this problem.

Additionally, the police emphasized the importance of a balanced strategy that combines enforcement actions with engagement with stakeholders to address the underlying reasons for illegal tax collection, including the involvement of certain local government entities.

Both organizations have agreed to develop a thorough implementation plan to ensure the initiative's success, marking a crucial step toward improving Nigeria's business climate and protecting citizens from illegitimate taxation.