The chairman of Ikole council area in Ekiti, Bayo Omojola, has warned the council’s revenue collection officers against diverting government funds into private accounts.

Mr Omojola gave the warning in an interview on Sunday in Ikole-Ekiti. He advised revenue collection officers to be fair, trustworthy, and transparent in discharging their duties.

The local government chairman said traders often complained of double taxation and not receiving evidence of payment despite their efforts to pay taxes amid the challenging economic situation.

Mr Omojola explained that the revenue generated was used to provide social amenities and infrastructure for communities within the council area.

The council boss warned that he would not tolerate any revenue collector overcharging business owners who were striving to earn a steady income and secure a reliable livelihood.

He urged staff involved in fraudulent practices or dereliction of duty to desist and adhere strictly to regulations guiding revenue collection.

“I want to urge the council’s revenue collectors to be transparent, fair and trustworthy. We are representing the interests of our people, and we must give priority to their welfare and development.

“My office is open to complaints from business owners, traders and shop owners in our communities. I want to assure them that their complaints will be attended to promptly.

“Any revenue collector caught overcharging or diverting council funds will be suspended and punished,” he said.

(NAN)