The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Edo State Internal Revenue Services have agreed to collaborate in combating tax fraud in the state.
This agreement was reached on Thursday May 7, 2026, when John Odior, chairman of Edo State Internal Revenue Service, paid a courtesy visit to the Benin Zonal Directorate of the Commission.
The EIRS boss disclosed that he was at the EFCC to explore areas of collaboration and deepen the relationship between the two organisations.
He noted that collaboration with the EFCC has become imperative in order to bring in those who evade taxes, pay little and those who are not captured into the tax net.
“When you arrest a suspect, ask for evidence of their tax payment or tax clearance. You can write to us to find out whether the person has been paying tax or not, and we shall provide you with the information,” he said.
He noted that through such information sharing more people will be captured into the tax net and improve the revenue drive of the state government.
Responding, Sa’ad Hanafi Sa’ad, the acting zonal director, Benin Zonal Directorate, Deputy Commander of the EFCC, said the Commission has been collaborating with the EIRS and was willing to continue noting that the Commission has a section that deals with tax matters.
“We have a Tax Fraud Section which deals with issues of taxes. The Commission recognises its importance as a source of revenue for the government and we ensure that those who try to evade tax payment face the consequence of their action!,” he said.
He assured the EIRS boss that the Commission’s door will always be open to them:
“You can call on us anytime you have anything to share with us and we shall respond accordingly.”
