The Acting Chairman of the Benue State Internal Revenue Service, Emmanuel Agena, has disclosed that 35 individuals involved in illegal tax collection in the state are currently undergoing prosecution.

Agena revealed that the agency has set an ambitious revenue target of over N16 billion for the year 2024, following the successful surpassing of its N14 billion target in 2023.

Addressing journalists on Monday, Agena expressed concern over the activities of illegal tax collectors in the state, noting that many of them received support from influential figures.

He emphasized his administration’s commitment to ending the era of patronage by politicians, aiming to significantly reduce illegal tax collection activities.

Agena also condemned a recent incident where a truck carrying palliatives from Adamawa to Anambra State was hijacked by youths in Aliade, Gwer East.

“Three persons have been arrested and are in police custody. They will be moved to DSS for thorough investigation,” he disclosed.

“We aim to flush out or reduce illegal tax collectors to the barest minimum. Already, 35 people who engaged in illegal tax collection were arrested and facing prosecution,” he added.

“This has been a big challenge. We have constituted a team headed by the director of Tax collection. Prominent people in the state are involved in encouraging these boys,” he stated, highlighting the gravity of the issue.