CITN, FIRS, others mourn as Pioneer President passes on

By Henry Uche

The Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), its friends and well wishers mourns the death of its Founding and first President/Chairman of Council, Chief David Ajibola Olorunleke, who reigned between 1985 and 1995. 

In a statement signed by the Registrar/ Chief Executive of CITN, Afolake Oso, the Institute described him as a revered “Doyen of Taxation.”

Olorunleke was the former Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), a former Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Finance and Former Board member of FIRS.

“It is with gratitude to God for a life well lived and solemn respect that the Management of Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria officially announce the passing on of doyen of taxation in Nigeria – Chief David Ajibola Olorunleke.

“Olorunleke departed this life peacefully in the early hours of Friday, October 24, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and an enduring champion of the tax profession in Nigeria. We kindly request your prayers, reflections, and tributes as we celebrate his life, honour his achievements, and reaffirm our commitment to advancing the profession he helped build.

“Condolence register is open at the Institute’s offices in Lagos and Abuja as we pay tributes to a great elder statesman. May his gentle soul rest in eternal peace. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of tax professionals” the Institute added.