A Magistrate’s Court in Osubi, Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State has sentenced four men Otekevwe Festus, Charles Chinedu, Matthew Onisukume, and Marcus Chinugo to four years in prison each for conspiracy and extortion.
The Delta State Internal Revenue Service (DSIRS) prosecuted the men for illegally collecting revenue at Koko Junction along the Sapele–Benin Expressway, in violation of the state’s revenue laws.
In delivering the verdict, the court found them guilty of extorting motorists and engaging in unauthorized tax collection. Each of the convicts was sentenced to four years imprisonment with hard labour or an option to pay a ₦2 million fine. They will serve their sentences at the Sapele Correctional Centre.
Reacting to the ruling, the Executive Chairman of the DSIRS, Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata, described the judgment as a win for due process and a clear warning against illegal revenue collection in the state.
“We welcome the court’s decision, which makes it clear that tax evasion and extortion have no place in Delta State,” Ighrakpata said. “This ruling strengthens our resolve to protect government revenue and ensure that all taxable individuals and businesses comply with the law.”
He also urged residents and business owners to report any unauthorized revenue collection to the DSIRS, stressing that partnership between citizens and authorities is essential for accountability and voluntary tax compliance.
“By working together, we can build a culture of voluntary compliance and drive the sustainable development of our state,” he added.
Read also: Obi of Ogwashi-Uku: Mike Nwaukoni and Three Others Charged with Terrorism and Attempted Murder
