FIC Report (Kogi State) – The Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has directed the Kogi State Internal Revenue Service (KGIRS) to commence strict enforcement of tax compliance against road violators, particularly mining companies whose heavy-duty trucks have allegedly damaged a major road in Lokoja.
The governor gave the directive on Friday during an inspection of the deteriorating road along the Zone 8–Zango axis of Lokoja, where he expressed concern over the extent of damage caused by overloaded trucks transporting minerals.
Ododo said the state government would no longer tolerate the activities of miners who evade taxes and toll payments while using public infrastructure financed with taxpayers’ money.
He noted that many of the heavy trucks deliberately avoid designated toll points, opting for alternative routes that have now become severely damaged due to constant movement of overloaded vehicles.
According to him, the directive to KGIRS is aimed at ensuring that operators in the mining sector comply with tax obligations while protecting public infrastructure from further destruction.
The governor stressed that roads built with public funds must be safeguarded for the benefit of all residents, warning that anyone found violating tax laws or regulations governing the movement of heavy trucks would face appropriate sanctions.
Speaking during the inspection, the Project Manager of China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), Mr. Sun Yi Shi, disclosed that the road, which was constructed less than two years ago, has already developed extensive potholes and failed sections because of persistent use by heavy mining trucks.
He explained that the road was primarily designed to accommodate light and medium-weight vehicles and not the continuous movement of overloaded trucks transporting solid minerals.
Mr. Shi said that CCECC had resolved to erect barricades along the affected section to restrict the passage of heavy-duty trucks, noting that the measure would help preserve the road and enable it to attain its intended lifespan.
Residents and motorists who use the route have repeatedly complained about the worsening condition of the road, urging the government to take decisive action against those responsible for its destruction.
The latest directive by Governor Ododo signals the state government’s determination to protect public infrastructure, strengthen tax enforcement, and ensure that companies operating in the mining sector contribute fairly to the maintenance and development of Kogi State.
Maryam Abubakar Gulma CIPRO Federal Information Centre Lokoja
3rd July 2026
