The Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) has announced a strategic partnership with the Forum of Insurance Practitioners in Edo State, aimed at streamlining service delivery, particularly concerning motor vehicle registration and renewal processes.
This collaboration coincides with the state government vehemently denying rumors of a new tax imposition on private schools, labeling the claims as false and malicious.
The partnership between EIRS and the insurance forum was revealed during a courtesy visit by the forum’s leadership to the EIRS Corporate Head Office in Benin City. Hon. Sir Michael Ohio-Ezomo, Executive Director of Other Revenue, representing the Executive Chairman, emphasized the crucial role of insurance companies in societal well-being.
According to a press release from the office of the Head of Corporate Communications, Mr. Courage Eboigbe, Hon. Ohio-Ezomo stated that EIRS, through its motor vehicle processes, actively promotes compliance with the mandatory third-party insurance policy.
He further unveiled ongoing efforts with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) to create a more seamless vehicle registration and renewal experience. This initiative includes improving the motorist database, ensuring a consistent supply of number plates, and doubling the number of Driver’s Licence Capturing Centers in Edo State from six to twelve.
“EIRS is committed to supporting insurance-related issues,” assured Ohio-Ezomo, commending the insurance practitioners for their public awareness efforts over the past 23 years.
Sir (Chief) Dr. Bibowei James Braie, leader of the insurance forum delegation, praised the EIRS Board’s constitution and achievements, particularly its business-oriented approach to revenue management.
He also highlighted the expanded coverage of third-party insurance policies, which now includes the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) “Brown Card,” providing protection for Nigerian policyholders across ECOWAS member nations.
“While acknowledging the regulatory challenges facing the insurance industry, we appeal for stronger collaboration between the EIRS and insurance practitioners to enhance insurance education and policy formulation for the benefit of Edo State residents,” Chief Braie stated.
The visit was prompted by EIRS’s ongoing review of its Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) processes, aimed at maintaining order and efficiency within the sector.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Government has addressed circulating rumors regarding a new tax system for private schools. The Commissioner for Information and Communication, Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, issued a strong statement dismissing the reports as “false and misleading” and “malicious machinations” intended to tarnish the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo.
“Taxation is a legal matter, requiring legislative approval, and no such law has been passed by the Edo State House of Assembly. There is no executive bill before the House seeking to impose a tax on private schools,” Hon. Ohonbamu clarified.
The rumors alleged that private schools were required to pay between ₦30,000 and ₦35,000 per student as a tax assessment. The government firmly denies the existence of such a tax and urged the public to disregard the misinformation.
“This is nothing but an attempt to undermine the achievements of Governor Okpebholo. The APC-led government in Edo State is committed to uplifting the people and will not impose financial burdens that could create a permanent underclass,” the commissioner added, referencing the tax bill currently under discussion at the National Assembly.
