By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Edo State Internal Revenue Service has announced the abolition of physical Revenue Scratch Cards (RSC) in the haulage sector, replacing the process with a fully automated digital revenue collection system aimed at improving transparency and eliminating leakages.
The new policy, which took effect from May 1, 2026, was disclosed in a public notice signed by the Executive Chairman of EIRS, John Odior.
According to the agency, the move forms part of the Edo State Government’s drive toward complete digitization of revenue collection processes and the elimination of systemic inefficiencies within the haulage sector.
Under the new arrangement, haulage companies, transport operators and drivers have been directed to immediately discontinue the purchase and use of paper revenue scratch cards, as such cards will no longer serve as valid proof of payment.
The revenue agency warned that individuals involved in the sale, counterfeiting or issuance of the discontinued scratch cards would face strict sanctions, including blacklisting, arrest and prosecution.
Speaking on the operational upgrade, Odior said the automation initiative was designed to ensure a seamless and secure transit experience for haulage operators across Edo State.
He explained that the digital system would help eliminate extortion, illegal checkpoints and harassment of haulage drivers on roads across the state through swift electronic verification processes.
“This modern, digital approach effectively eliminates extortion, illegal checkpoints, and the harassment of haulage drivers on Edo State roads,” he stated, adding that the technology-driven process would protect both government revenue and the interests of transport operators.
The EIRS outlined a three-step process for compliance by operators in the sector. According to the agency, drivers are first required to register with authorized vendors, after which they would receive a QR code to be permanently affixed to the right-hand side of their vehicle windshields.
The second stage involves the funding of a secure digital wallet linked to the driver’s Tax ID, phone number or vehicle number for seamless payment of haulage fees.
For verification, Revenue Collectors and Enforcement Officers would use handheld digital scanners to confirm payment validity by scanning the QR codes displayed on vehicle windshields.
The agency further urged all haulage operators and logistics companies to embrace the transition without delay, warning that enforcement teams had already been deployed across major transport corridors in the state.
It added that any vehicle operating without a valid and scannable QR code would be considered non-compliant and subjected to legal and financial penalties.
