JRB and Police Launch Joint Effort to Eradicate Illegal Roadblocks and Strengthen Tax Compliance
The Joint Revenue Board (JRB), led by Executive Secretary Mr. Segun Adesokan, has unveiled a landmark partnership with the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) to tackle illegal tax collection activities and dismantle unauthorized roadblocks across the country. This initiative aims to streamline revenue administration and curb practices that have long plagued businesses and citizens.
High-Level Engagement and Strategic Mandate
During a high-level meeting with senior NPF officers, Adesokan emphasized the JRB's core mandate to ensure uniformity, transparency, and efficiency in Nigeria's revenue systems. He highlighted that the ongoing tax reforms, championed by President Bola Tinubu, are designed to foster economic growth by focusing on taxing prosperity and profits rather than burdening poverty and investments.
Adesogan reiterated that these reforms explicitly prohibit illegal tax practices, which have historically increased costs for transporters and consumers alike. He referenced a communiqué issued at the JRB's 158th meeting in December 2025, which banned the use of roadblocks for tax collection and unauthorized tax stickers nationwide.
Legislative Backing and Criminalization of Unlawful Practices
To reinforce this stance, Adesokan disclosed that a Model Harmonised Taxes and Levies Act has been passed by 15 State Houses of Assembly and is under consideration in others. This act criminalizes cash-based tax collection, illegal roadblocks, and the involvement of non-state actors in revenue collection on public roads.
"These unlawful practices not only harass citizens but significantly increase the cost of goods and services, as transporters are forced to pass on illegal charges to consumers," Adesokan stated, underscoring the economic impact of such activities.
Establishment of a Joint National Task Force
In response to these challenges, the JRB has proposed the creation of a joint national task force in collaboration with the NPF. This task force will operate across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, working closely with local revenue authorities to:
- Identify illegal tax operators and unauthorized roadblocks.
- Dismantle these structures and prosecute offenders.
- Enhance coordination between police and tax officials to ensure compliance.
Police Commitment and Collaborative Efforts
A representative of the Inspector General of Police, DIG Finance and Administration Mohammed Abdul Suleiman, welcomed the initiative and reaffirmed the police's commitment to supporting the JRB. The Force acknowledged the severe economic and security implications of illegal roadblocks, assuring that commissioners of police nationwide will collaborate fully with the board and sub-national tax authorities to eliminate this menace.
This partnership marks a significant step towards improving Nigeria's revenue collection framework, reducing harassment of citizens, and lowering costs associated with illegal tax practices. By leveraging the strengths of both the JRB and NPF, the initiative aims to create a more transparent and efficient system that benefits the economy and public safety.
