By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
A Magistrate’s Court sitting in Osubi, Okpe Local Government Area of Delta State, has sentenced four men to four years imprisonment each for engaging in illegal revenue collection and extortion.
The convicts Otekevwe Festus, Charles Chinedu, Matthew Onisukume, and Marcus Chinugo were arrested while extorting motorists at Koko Junction along the Sapele–Benin Expressway.
They were prosecuted by the Delta State Internal Revenue Service (DSIRS) for violating state revenue laws through unauthorized tax collection.
In her judgment, the magistrate found the defendants guilty of conspiracy and extortion, sentencing them to four years imprisonment with hard labour or an option of ₦2 million fine each, to be served at the Sapele Correctional Centre.
Reacting to the verdict, the Executive Chairman of the DSIRS, Hon. Solomon Ighrakpata, commended the court for upholding justice, describing the ruling as a deterrent against illegal revenue activities.
“This judgment sends a strong message that tax evasion and extortion will not be tolerated in Delta State,” Ighrakpata said. “It reaffirms our commitment to protecting government revenue and ensuring lawful tax practices.”
He urged residents and business owners to report any illegal revenue collection to the DSIRS, emphasizing the need for collaboration between citizens and authorities to promote accountability.
“Together, we can build a culture of voluntary compliance and contribute to Delta’s sustainable development,” he added.