When Essien Etop Andrew, Deputy Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) overseeing Finance, Administration, and Technical Services, entered the National Assembly Complex on Tuesday, there was no indication that he would not leave the parliament alive.
Andrew led a team of senior customs officers to the House of Representatives for an investigative hearing by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC). He and his colleagues were there to present on the revenue remittances made by the Nigeria Customs Service.
“We have remitted these levies into the appropriate account as federation account levies, and it is the responsibility of the Office of the Accountant General to allocate these funds for distribution through FAAC. However, we are unable to explain why these funds were not transferred to the federation account,” he stated.
During the discussion, Committee Chairman Rep. Bamidele Salam interjected, asking, “So, you’re confirming that these funds were indeed deposited into the Accountant General’s account, and the subsequent transfer to the federation account is not under your jurisdiction?”
In response, Andrew affirmed, “Yes. This also applies to 2017, as shown on the next page. In 2016, additional levies were included. Sir, I may need to get some water.”
“Please go ahead,” replied Bamidele. “Would you like some tea? Can someone assist him?”
Shortly after this exchange, Andrew collapsed and was swiftly taken to the House of Representatives Clinic, where he later passed away.
Abdullahi Maiwada, the Public Relations Officer of Customs, issued a statement expressing the Service’s shock and sorrow over the death.
“It is with great sadness and a profound 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, responsible for revenue reconciliation, tragically passed away on June 25, 2024, while making a presentation before the National Assembly House Committee on Public Accounts.
“During his presentation, about three minutes in, Deputy Comptroller Essien requested water and displayed signs of discomfort. Despite immediate assistance, he unfortunately passed away.
“Born on November 16, 1967, Deputy Comptroller Essien joined the Nigeria Customs Service on November 27, 1989, and dedicated over three decades of service to our nation. A native of Nsit-Ubium in Akwa Ibom State, he was renowned for his diligence and exceptional service in the Accounts Unit. His role as DC Revenue was pivotal in ensuring precise and dedicated revenue reconciliation.
“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 Deputy Comptroller Essien’s family. ‘The loss of such a dedicated and valued team member is deeply felt throughout the Service. We are committed to supporting and assisting his family and colleagues during this difficult time.'”
