Justice Okoye,FCA, Chairman, IIRS
Pursuant to the ongoing efforts to enhance revenue generation and streamline tax compliance, the Chairman of the Imo State Internal Revenue Service (IIRS), Mr. Justice Okoye (FCA), and the Commissioner for Trade, Commerce, and Investment, Barrister Rex Anunobi, recently embarked on a sensitization tour across major markets in Imo state. The initiative is aimed at fostering collaboration with market leaders and traders while introducing innovative measures to improve the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR).
The officials visited several key markets, including Naze Timber and Allied Traders Naze, Relief Market, World Bank Market, Building Materials Market Orlu, Timber Market Orlu, Electrical and Electronics Market Orlu, and Orlu International Market. During the engagements, they assessed market operations, addressed challenges related to tax compliance, and introduced authorized agents responsible for managing e-ticketing, market tolls, and stallage fees.
Mr. Justice Okoye emphasized the importance of the newly implemented Revenue Management Solution (RMS) platform, designed to simplify and digitize revenue collection processes. He reiterated that the IIRS remains the sole authorized body for collecting taxes, levies, and other revenues on behalf of the state, warning against the activities of unauthorized agents. He also expressed gratitude to the Trade Commissioner for his partnership in driving this critical initiative.
Barrister Rex Anunobi, the Trade Commissioner, urged market leaders to actively support the sensitization efforts and ensure that traders are adequately informed about the benefits of the RMS platform. He stressed the importance of maintaining accurate and updated records of traders to facilitate a smooth transition to the new system. Additionally, he outlined the current stallage fees and daily toll rates, while highlighting the consequences of non-compliance with tax policies.
Market leaders welcomed the initiative, expressing appreciation for the proactive approach of the IIRS Chairman and the Trade Commissioner. They pledged their full cooperation in the revenue enhancement drive and requested additional time to educate traders about the shift from traditional paper ticketing to the electronic system.
The engagements underscored the state government’s commitment to improving revenue collection and fostering a more transparent and efficient tax system, ultimately contributing to the economic development of Imo State.
