Nigeria Customs Officer Slumps, Dies During Engagement at National Assembly

By:Israel Adeleke

An officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been confirmed dead while attending an engagement with an House Committee at the National Assembly on Tuesday.

OPEN TELEVISION Naija got to know about the sad occurrence via a statement signed by the House Spokesman / Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akin Rotimi, sighted by our correspondent.

The statement said that the officer developed “sudden health complications” during the engagement, which occurred around 1.00 pm on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.

He said, “It is with deep sadness and regret that we confirm the passing of an esteemed official of the Nigeria Customs Service who was at the National Assembly for an engagement with a House Committee.

“During the engagement, which occurred around 1.00 pm on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, the official developed sudden health complications. Despite the immediate and diligent efforts of first responders and medical personnel at the National Assembly Clinic, he unfortunately passed away,”.

The House, however, did not disclose the officer’s identity “out of respect for the family” but rather decided to send thier condolences to the family.

“The House of Representatives extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased during this difficult time. We recognise the significant contributions he made to the Nigeria Customs Service and to our nation.

“The House of Representatives stands ready to support efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and is cooperating fully with all relevant authorities to ensure all necessary protocols are followed." He added.

Meanwhile, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has personally expressed his condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of a dedicated public servant. Our hearts go out to his family during this difficult time.”

Further investigations by Open Television Naija however reveals that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has subsequently announced the passing of Deputy Comptroller Etop Andrew Essien, who served as the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Revenue in the Account Unit of the service.

Deputy Comptroller Essien, who was in charge of the reconciliation of revenue for the service, passed away on the 25th of June 2024 while making presentation before the National Assembly House Committee on Public Accounts.

Open Television Naija further gathered that Officer in question had a brief presentation which lasted for approximately three minutes in length during which the Deputy Comptroller Essien requested water and showed signs of discomfort.

Deputy Comptroller Essien was born on the 16th of November 1967 and joined the Nigeria Customs Service on the 27th of November 1989 with over three decades of service to our nation. Hailing from Nsit-Ubium in Akwa Ibom State, he was known for his diligence and exceptional service record in the Accounts Unit. His role as the DC Revenue was pivotal in ensuring the accurate reconciliation of revenue, which he performed with utmost precision and dedication.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, on behalf of the entire officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service, extends heartfelt condolences to the family of Deputy Comptroller Essien. “The loss of such a dedicated and valued team member is deeply felt across the Service. We are committed to supporting and assisting his family and colleagues as they navigate this difficult period.

The CGC stated, “Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. His exemplary service and unwavering commitment to duty will be remembered and cherished by the entire NCS community. The Nigeria Customs Service will forever remember Deputy Comptroller Essien for his outstanding contributions, his exemplary service, and his dedication to the nation. We honour his memory, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all.”

Deputy Comptroller Essien is survived by his loving wife and children. May his soul rest in perfect peace.