Three Minutes Into His Presentation At NASS, Essien Requested Water, Showed Signs Of Discomfort And Passed Away… Customs Mourns
By Abimbola Abdullah
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has identified the officer that died during an engagement at the National Assembly (NASS), as Deputy Comptroller Etop Andrew Essien, who served as the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Revenue in the Account Unit of the service.
Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, said Deputy Comptroller Essien, who was in charge of the reconciliation of revenue for the service, passed away today (25th of June 2024) while making a presentation before the National Assembly House Committee on Public Accounts.
Adeniyi, in a statement signed by Chief Superintendent of Customs and National Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Maiwada, said: “During his presentation, approximately three minutes in, Deputy Comptroller Essien requested water and showed signs of discomfort. Despite immediate efforts to assist him, he unfortunately passed away,”
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.
Adeniyi, on behalf of the entire officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service, extends heartfelt condolences to the family of Deputy Comptroller Essien, saying: “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.” he stated.
