BENIN CITY — The Edo State Government has threatened to seal the offices of a Federal Government parastatal, along with several multinational and private companies operating in the state, over alleged failure to pay statutory taxes.
Among the firms listed as defaulters are the Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC), Barnsley International Company Ltd, Ossiomo Power, Okpella Cement (Dangote Group), 7Up Bottling Company Ltd, and Nigerian Bottling Company Ltd, among others.
According to sources within the government, the affected establishments defaulted in paying property tax, ground rent, and tenement rates — all consolidated under the Edo State Land Use Charge (LUC). The planned enforcement is backed by Section 30 of the state’s LUC Law.
The source revealed that despite repeated reminders, the companies have failed to comply with the law, prompting the government to initiate sanctions. He noted that an enforcement notice had been issued earlier on July 24, 2025, and duly published in national dailies and social media platforms as required by law.
“The state has concluded plans to seal the premises of the defaulting companies after the expiration of the notice. This is not only to sanction defaulters but also to recover outstanding debts owed the government,” the source said.
Governor Monday Okpebholo, who has consistently emphasized the need to accelerate infrastructure development across the state, has defended the government’s tax drive, describing it as crucial for sustaining development efforts.
DAILY POST recalls that on August 27, 2025, several commercial premises in Benin metropolis were sealed for violating the Land Use Charge law. The next phase of enforcement, officials said, will extend to Edo North and Central Senatorial Districts.
Meanwhile, Tunde Eigbiremolen, Director of Media, Edo State Geographic Information Service (EdoGIS), commended compliant taxpayers and assured that such individuals and organizations would be rewarded by the government.
He further disclosed that the next wave of enforcement will not only target large corporations but also banks, filling stations, trading companies, and private residences across the state.
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