The Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA) has ordered the immediate suspension of the collection of trade permit payments from Point of Sale (POS) operators across the council area.
The decision follows concerns raised by residents and other stakeholders over the ₦300 weekly payment being collected from POS operators.
The council said the suspension is aimed at promoting clarity, transparency and continued engagement with affected business operators while the matter undergoes further administrative review.
According to Olorunda LCDA, the payment arrangement followed prior engagements between the council management and representatives of POS operators operating within the area.
The discussions focused on establishing an appropriate trade permit arrangement for POS operators, many of whom, according to the council, had not previously been covered by any trade permit payment despite operating commercial businesses within the council’s jurisdiction.
The council said a proposed payment of ₦300 per week was discussed during the stakeholder meetings and agreed upon by representatives of the operators and the LCDA management.
Despite the earlier agreement, the council acknowledged concerns expressed by residents and other stakeholders regarding the payment.
It also recognised the important role played by POS operators in providing financial services to communities, particularly in areas where access to conventional banking facilities may be limited.
The administration said it was therefore necessary to ensure that any revenue arrangement affecting POS operators is transparent, properly communicated and sensitive to the realities of small businesses.
With the suspension taking immediate effect, POS operators are not required to pay the affected weekly trade permit fee to the council or to anyone claiming to be a staff member or revenue agent of Olorunda LCDA.
The council urged operators and residents to remain vigilant and disregard individuals who may attempt to collect the suspended payment under false pretences.
Olorunda LCDA said it will engage representatives of POS operators and other relevant stakeholders as part of the review process.
The council added that further information will be made available to the public following the review, including details of any subsequent decisions or arrangements.
The administration assured residents and members of the business community of its commitment to responsible revenue administration, transparency and the protection of legitimate businesses operating within the council area.
It also urged POS operators and residents to disregard speculation and await official communication on the outcome of the review.
Signed:
Media Unit
Office of the Executive Chairman
Olorunda LCDA
