The identity of the senior Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) officer who collapsed and died during an investigative hearing conducted by the DPR has been revealed.
Customs officers suddenly collapsed while answering MPs’ questions at the National Assembly in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Although the cause of the incident was unclear at the time, emergency medical personnel were called to the scene and attempted resuscitation, but the officer was pronounced dead afterward.
The trial was immediately stopped while the Department refused to reveal the identity of the deceased out of respect for the family.
However, in a statement issued on Tuesday evening by NCS spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, the deceased officer was identified as Etop Deputy Comptroller Andrew Essien, who served as Deputy Comptroller in charge of Revenue in the service’s Accounts Unit.
He said the deceased showed no signs of discomfort asking for water five minutes into the session.
The statement read: “Deputy Comptroller Essien was born on November 16, 1967 and joined the Nigerian Customs Service on November 27, 1989 with over three decades of service to our country.
“A native of Nsit-Ubium in Akwa Ibom State, he is known for his diligence and outstanding service record in the Accounts Unit. His role as DC Revenue is critical in ensuring accurate revenue reconciliation, which he performs with great care and dedication.
“The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi on behalf of all officers and men of the Nigerian Customs Service, conveys his sincere condolences to the family of Deputy Comptroller Essien. The loss of a dedicated and valued team member was felt acutely across the Service.
“We are committed to supporting and assisting his family and colleagues as they navigate this difficult time.”
“Our thoughts are with his family, his friends and everyone who had the privilege to know and work with him. His exemplary service and unwavering commitment to duty will be remembered and appreciated by the entire NCS community.
“The Nigerian Customs Service will forever remember Deputy Comptroller Essien for his extraordinary contributions, exemplary service and dedication to the nation. “
By: Babajide Okeowo
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