A Magistrate’s Court sitting in Osubi, Okpe local government area of Delta State has sentenced four individuals; Otekevwe Festus, Charles Chinedu, Matthew Onisukume, and Marcus Chinugo, to four years imprisonment each for conspiracy and extortion.
The convicts were prosecuted by the Delta State Internal Revenue Service (DSIRS) after being apprehended for engaging in illegal revenue collection at Koko Junction, along the Sapele–Benin Expressway.
Delivering judgment, the Court found the four guilty of extorting unsuspecting motorists under the guise of collecting government levies.
They were sentenced to serve four years imprisonment with hard labour at the Sapele Correctional Centre, with an option of fine of ₦2 million each.
Reacting to the verdict, the Executive Chairman of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service, Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata, commended the Court for its firm stance on upholding justice and safeguarding public revenue.
“We applaud the court’s decision, which sends a strong message that tax evasion and extortion will not be tolerated in Delta State.
“This judgment underscores our unwavering commitment to protecting government revenue and ensuring full compliance with tax laws,” Ighrakpata stated.
He further urged residents to report any unauthorized or suspicious revenue collection activities to the DSIRS, assuring that the agency would continue to enforce transparency and accountability in revenue generation.
“Together, we can build a culture of voluntary compliance and contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of our great state,” he added.
“Let this serve as a warning to those who attempt to undermine our revenue system, we will not hesitate to ensure they face the full weight of the law.”
