WARRI/Nigeria: The BIRS headquarters in Warri erupted in joyous celebrations following the announcement of Hon Solomon Ighrakpata’s appointment as the Chairman of the reconstituted Delta State Internal Revenue Service (BIRS) Board. The news came as a pleasant surprise to many, considering Hon Ighrakpata’s previous experience and reputation in the field.
Hon Ighrakpata had previously served as a member of the Internal Revenue Service Board from 2015 to 2018 before resigning to participate in the 2019 Delta State House of Assembly election, where he successfully represented Uvwie State Constituency. During his earlier tenure, he held the position of Deputy Chief Whip of the House and represented Delta Central on the IRS board, where he chaired the Enforcement Taskforce.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, invoking his powers under the Delta State Board of Internal Revenue Service Law, 2020, nominated Hon Ighrakpata, along with four others, to the State Assembly for screening and confirmation as Chairman and Executive Directors of the reconstituted Board.
The announcement was made public by Speaker Rt Hon Emomotimi Guwor during Tuesday’s plenary session, shedding light on the necessity of reconstituting the Board after the expiration of the previous board’s tenure.
The news of Hon Ighrakpata’s appointment was met with widespread jubilation at the Warri office headquarters of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The enthusiastic response reflected the high esteem and acceptance of Hon Ighrakpata, who is widely recognized as a servant leader known for his uprightness, discipline, and friendly disposition.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s decision to appoint Hon Ighrakpata as Chairman of the Board has garnered praise from many quarters. His selection is seen as a perfect fit for the role, considering his exemplary qualifications and experience.
Hon Ighrakpata, an accomplished Accountant, and a Fellow of the Certified National Accountant (FCNA) holds memberships in prestigious organizations such as the Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation (ACIT) and the Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Management (FNIM).
In addition, his tenure in the Delta State House of Assembly from 2019 to 2023 saw him serve as the Chairman of the Committee on Special Duties and Deputy Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee.
Known for his composed and thoughtful demeanor, Chief Ighrakpata has always been dedicated to ensuring that the voices of the people he represents in the Assembly are heard on the legislative floor.
His remarkable contributions to debates on Motions and Bills have earned him respect among his colleagues. In response to the announcement, several fellow lawmakers visited his residence in Asaba, expressing their confidence in Hon Ighrakpata’s ability to excel as the Chairman of the Delta State Internal Revenue Service Board.
They praised Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for making an excellent choice and encouraged Hon Ighrakpata to continue being a shining ambassador for the 7th Delta State Assembly.