The Rivers State Government has suspended the collection of Fire Service levies, charges and rates across the state with effect from January 1, 2026.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties, Mr. Sokari-George D.P., announced this on Thursday during a press conference in Port Harcourt. He stated that, from the effective date, no individual or group is authorised to collect Fire Service levies, taxes or rates from any entity operating in Rivers State.
Mr. Sokari-George explained that while taxes remain a critical tool for government planning, development and evaluation of projects and programmes, irregularities had been observed in the collection process. According to him, the Rivers State Fire Service, under the Ministry of Special Duties, is a statutory body, while tax collection is the responsibility of the Rivers State Board of Internal Revenue.
He revealed that the government discovered the existence of unauthorised task forces, allegedly operating with some ministry staff, who were issuing demand notices and Fire Safety Certificates to hospitals, schools, hotels, business premises and other organisations.
“As directed by the Rivers State Government, the general public is hereby informed that no such body or task force is recognised from January 1, 2026,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary announced that the suspension would remain in force until the government issues clear guidelines on the proper and lawful procedure for the collection of Fire Service-related taxes.
He further disclosed that the state government plans to introduce a seamless and transparent process that will involve the Board of Internal Revenue to ensure accountability and that the state benefits fully from such revenues.
“I therefore advise the general public that nobody should pay or collect any tax on behalf of the Rivers State Fire Service until further notice. In due course, the Rivers State Government will make further announcements on how such taxes will be collected,” Mr. Sokari-George added.
The government urged residents and business operators in the state to disregard any demand for Fire Service levies pending official communication on the resumption of the collection process.
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