The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) suffered a tragic loss on Sunday, as Assistant Superintendent of Customs II, Ahmed Usman, lost his life during an attack on the Customs Office in Geidam town, Yobe.
In a statement released on Sunday by the National Public Relations Officer of Customs, Abdullahi Maiwada, the NCS expressed its heartfelt condolences to the family of ASC II Ahmed Usman, the NCS Borno/Yobe Area Command, and the Government of Gombe State for the loss of this heroic and dedicated individual in the line of duty.
According to the statement, “In a courageous stand against suspected Boko Haram insurgents, the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), with timely reinforcement from the Nigerian Army, thwarted an attack on the Customs Office in Geidam town, Yobe State, demonstrating unwavering courage and resilience against the enemies of the state. The Customs Office faced a formidable threat but was bravely defended, safeguarding the facility and the families of fellow officers and men.
“During this harrowing encounter, Assistant Superintendent of Customs II Ahmed Usman, born on April 2, 1983, and a dedicated NCS member since February 24, 2009, tragically paid the ultimate sacrifice. He hailed from Pindiga Town, Akko Local Government Area in Gombe State, leaving behind a grieving wife and five children, three boys and two girls.
“The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, alongside the entire NCS fraternity, extends heartfelt condolences to the family of ASC II Ahmed Usman, the NCS Borno/Yobe Area Command, and the Government of Gombe State for the loss of this heroic and devoted individual in the line of duty.
“Furthermore, the CGC expressed gratitude for the unwavering solidarity and cooperation extended to the NCS by the Nigerian Army, Sister Agencies, and the good people of Yobe State under the leadership of His Excellency Mai Mala Buni, the Executive Governor.
“He emphasized the crucial role of community engagement in the shared pursuit of safety and security, urging all citizens to contribute to these collective endeavors actively.
“In memory of ASC II Ahmed Usman and the face of adversity, the Nigeria Customs Service stands strong, resolute, and united, ensuring the safety and security of the nation’s borders.”
———Gov Buni Offers Condolences——-
Meanwhile, the Governor of Yobe state, Mai Mala Buni, has expressed his condolences to the Nigeria Customs Service and the family of the officer who tragically lost his life during an attack by suspected Boko Haram insurgents in Geidam on Saturday.
Governor Buni described the assault on the Customs facility and the officer’s untimely death as a somber and regrettable event.
In a press statement signed by the Director-General, Press and Media Affairs of the state Mamman Mohammed, he said “It is disheartening that we are confronted with this unfortunate incident during a period of relative peace throughout the state.
“Our dedicated security personnel have undeniably been vigilant in safeguarding lives and property in the state.
“However, this unfortunate attack serves as a reminder for all of us to remain watchful. We should not become complacent due to the peace we are currently experiencing.
“I extend the government’s and the people of Yobe state’s sympathy and condolences to the Nigeria Customs Service, the Controller General, and the family of the fallen officer,” Governor Buni stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaborating with security forces in the state to further enhance the prevailing peace.
Governor Buni offered prayers for the deceased officer’s eternal rest and for his family to find the strength to bear this irreparable loss.
The Governor also urged the residents of the state to provide timely and valuable information to the government and security agencies regarding any suspicious individuals or activities in their communities.