A Deputy Comptroller (DC) in charge of revenue in the account unit of the Nigeria Customs service (NCS) slumped and died while making an appearance at the national assembly on Tuesday. The deceased, DC Etop Andrew Essien, was in charge of the reconciliation of revenue for the service, was making a presentation before the house of representative committee on public accounts when he passed away.
Abdullahi Maiwada, the national public relations of the NCS, in a statement, said three minutes into the presentation, DC Essien requested was showing signs of discomfort and made a request for water before he slumped. Immediate efforts to assist him yielded no results as he unfortunately passed away.
Maiwada noted that the late DC Essien was known for his diligence and exceptional service in the account’s unit.
He added Essien’s role as the DC revenue was pivotal in ensuring the accurate reconciliation of revenue, which he performed with utmost precision and dedication.
Meanwhile, the house of representative has issued a statement commiserating with the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased over his untimely passing.
A statement signed by the House Spokesman and Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Akin Rotimi, Jr., on Tuesday, said the officer developed “sudden health complications” during the engagement, which occurred around 1.00 pm.
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”.
He said, “The House of Representatives extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased during this difficult time. We recognize 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.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, 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.”
Also commiserating with the family is the president and commander in chief of the armed forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a statement released by spokesman Ajuri Ngelale, the president sent his condolences to the family of the deceased and the Nigeria Customs service community.
The statement reads: “President Bola Tinubu receives the news of the passing of Mr. Etop Andrew Essien, the Deputy Comptroller in charge of revenue at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), with profound sadness.
“Deputy Comptroller Essien passed away shortly after showing signs of discomfort during a presentation before the National Assembly House Committee on Public Accounts on Tuesday.“President Tinubu extends his heartfelt condolences to the family of Deputy Comptroller Essien and describes 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.”
