Late DC Essien

The Nigeria Customs Service has revealed that its lateDeputy Comptroller in charge of revenue in the Accounts Unit of the service, Deputy Comptroller Etop Andrew Essien, who died at the National Assembly yesterday while making a presentation to the House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts started showing signs of discomfort about three minutes into his presentation.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has condoled the family of the late officer in particular and the Nigeria Customs Service as a whole over the passing of the late Deputy Comptroller.

According a statement by the National Public Relations Officer of the Service, Chief Superintendent Abdullahi Maiwada on behalf of the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, the late Deputy Comptroller on showing signs of discomfort, requested for water, but regretted that he passed on despite immediate efforts to assist him.

He disclosed that the late Deputy Comptroller, who he described as a thorough bred officer, was known for his diligence and dedication to duty.

The statement reads in part: “It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that the Nigeria Customs Service NCS announces 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.

“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. 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.

“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.”

 The late Deputy Comptroller Essien is survived by his loving wife and children.

Meanwhile, in a condolence message to the Nigeria Customs Service, President Bola Tinubu said he received the news of the passing of the Deputy Comptroller with profound sadness.

According to a statement by Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Chief Chief Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the family of Deputy Comptroller Essien, describing his passing while on an official assignment as most distressing.

“The President also commiserates with the Comptroller General of Customs, Mr. Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, as well as the officers, men, and women of the Nigeria Customs Service. The President prays for the repose of the soul of the deceased officer and comfort for his family”, the message also read.