Tax: AiRS Chairman Warns Staff Against Cash Collection, Threatens Sanctions
Dr Greg Ezeilo and AiRS logo
The Executive Chairman of the Anambra Internal Revenue Service (AiRS), Dr. Greg U. Ezeilo, has issued a stern warning to the public and staff of the Service, stressing that no cash payments should be made to any AiRS personnel under any circumstances.
This directive follows increasing concerns and reports that some overzealous field officers and revenue enforcers have been intimidating business owners and individuals, demanding cash payments for taxes, levies, or business premises registration.
Dr. Ezeilo reiterated that the AiRS operates a strict zero-cash policy, and that all tax transactions must be carried out digitally through approved government channels to promote transparency, traceability, and accountability.
“Let me be clear , no one should ever give cash to any AiRS staff. Anyone caught collecting cash for business premises or any form of levy will be immediately detained and suspended,” Ezeilo stated.
He affirmed the Service’s commitment to upholding ethical standards and restoring public confidence in the state’s tax administration system.
He stressed that all AiRS staff are strictly prohibited from demanding or accepting cash in any form or under any pretext.
He said that the public and business owners are strongly encouraged to report any cases of harassment or extortion by AiRS personnel.
According to him,to facilitate this, AiRS has designated multiple digital platforms and verified bank payment channels for all tax-related transactions.
Dr. Ezeilo urged the people of Anambra State to collaborate with the government in sanitizing the revenue collection process by refusing to participate in off-record cash payments, regardless of pressure or threats from any staff member.
“If you are intimidated into paying cash, you are not only encouraging fraud but also putting yourself at risk,” he warned.
This announcement comes as the Anambra State Government intensifies efforts to plug leakages in its internally generated revenue system and ensure that all public funds go directly into the state treasury.
Dr. Ezeilo reaffirmed AiRS’s resolve to discipline any erring officer, and revealed that the Service’s internal monitoring and enforcement unit has been activated to identify and apprehend offenders.
“To report misconduct, taxpayers are advised to call the AiRS hotline or email the complaint unit using the contact information available on the official AiRS website and at AiRS offices across the state,” he said.
