By: Manoah Kikekon
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| POS operator used to illustrate the story |
BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE — The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, has officially debunked viral reports suggesting that Point of Sale (POS) operators in the area would be subject to a new daily levy of ₦200. The council describes the claims as unauthorized, stressing that no such directive was ever issued by the local administration.
In a press statement released on Monday, February 2, 2026, through his Chief Press Secretary, Augustin Kriko, Hon. Hunpe addressed the concerns raised by POS operators. The rumors had gained traction following a letter from a representative of the operators, Arebi Oluranti Zechariah, which expressed deep worry over the potential financial burden on small businesses.
Hon. Hunpe was categorical in his denial, stating that the information did not originate from any official council communication channel. "For the avoidance of doubt, I wish to categorically state that no such levy emanated from, nor was it authorized by, the Badagry Local Government, the Office of the Chairman, or the Revenue Committee," the Chairman noted.
He further clarified that no circular or internal approval had been signed regarding a daily fee for POS businesses. He urged the public and the business community to disregard any claims of an impending ₦200 charge, labeling the information as "misleading."
The Chairman highlighted that his administration is committed to fair and lawful revenue collection, specifically aligning with the Nigeria Tax Act 2025. Hon. Hunpe recently participated in the Tax Reform Summit 2025: The Lagos Implementation Roadmap, where the focus was on eliminating multiple taxation and harmonizing levies across the state.
"Our commitment is to people-centered revenue administration," Hunpe said. "We are working strictly within constitutional frameworks to ensure that our local businesses are supported rather than stifled by illegal or excessive fees."
To ensure transparency and professionalism in tax collection, the local government has constituted a new Revenue Committee. The team is headed by Mr. Sunday Agosu, an experienced retired council treasurer, and includes other qualified professionals who understand the delicate balance of local taxation.
Hon. Hunpe, drawing on his experience as a former federal lawmaker, emphasized that any new levy must undergo a rigorous legislative process. This includes public engagement with community leaders and representatives of relevant trade associations before any policy is implemented.
The Chairman pointed out the irony of the rumored levy, noting that his administration has been actively working to expand the POS sector. During his first 100 days in office, the local government empowered 100 citizens with POS machines and start-up capital to promote financial inclusion.
"It would be insensitive and counterproductive for the same administration to introduce or impose any levy that would undermine their sustainability or threaten their means of livelihood," Hunpe argued. He reiterated that his administration views POS operators as vital partners in providing essential services to underserved areas of Badagry.
Badagry Local Government continues to value the role of small-scale financial services in supporting the local economy. The council’s stance is that revenue administration should foster growth, not hinder it. By maintaining an open-door policy for consultation, the government aims to build a collaborative environment for all legitimate enterprises.