Customs mourn deputy controller

The Nigeria Customs Service said it is mourning the death of a Deputy Controller of Customs, Etop Essien, who died on Tuesday.

The PUNCH reports that Essien died at the National Assembly Clinic in Abuja on Tuesday.

He was a guest of the Public Account Committee of the House of Representatives where he appeared for questioning on Tuesday in continuation of the ongoing probe of revenue-generating agencies and parastatals of government.

While addressing the committee on remittance of levies into designated government accounts, Essien suddenly paused and said “Sir, I need to take water.”

In a statement, the National Public Relations Officer of the service, Abdullahi Maiwada, said until his death, Essien served as the Deputy Comptroller in charge of revenue in the accounts unit of the service.

He stated that Essien, who was in charge of the reconciliation of revenue for the service, passed away on the 25th of June 2024 while making a presentation before the 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,” Maiwada said.

Maiwada added that Essien, who joined the service in 1989, was born in 1967.

According to him, Essien who hailed from Akwa Ibom State, was known for his diligence and exceptional service record in the accounts unit.

“His role as the deputy controller revenue was pivotal in ensuring the accurate reconciliation of revenue, which he performed with utmost precision and dedication,” he added.

In the statement, the Comptroller General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, on behalf of the entire officers and men of the service, extended their heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased .

“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,” Adeniyi said.