Residents of Boi District in Bogoro Local Government Area of Bauchi State have been thrown into mourning following the death of a senior officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Lumi Elisha Gwamis.
Gwamis, the eldest son of former Bogoro Local Government Chairman, Hon. Elisha Tula Gwamis, died at the age of 44.
His death has sparked reactions across the community, with different accounts emerging about the circumstances surrounding the incident. However, no official authority has confirmed the claims being circulated, and the exact cause of his death remains unclear.
Speaking during a condolence visit on Monday, his father said the family was shocked by the tragic development.
“My son, Lumi, was healthy and hearty. None of us knew what was going to happen. We only received the sad news later. It is very unfortunate, and we are deeply sorrowful,” he said.
The death has attracted sympathisers from within and outside Bogoro Local Government Area, many of whom described the loss as painful and tragic.
Funeral arrangements have been scheduled for Wednesday, June 10, with his burial expected to take place in Boi District.
Gwamis is survived by his parents, Mrs. Saratu Elisha Gwamis and Hon. Elisha Tula Gwamis, as well as his siblings.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone D, Bauchi, has dismissed rumours linking the officer’s death to suicide.
The command’s Public Relations Officer, Umar Abdullahi, said there is no official information supporting such claims.
According to him, the command is relying on information provided by the family and will not act on speculation.
“What we were told by the father was that he was sick. He came with him to the office to process documentation after his transfer. He later proceeded on annual leave, which he was entitled to,” Abdullahi said.
He explained that Gwamis had recently been transferred from Tin Can Island Port and reported to the Bauchi unit before proceeding on annual leave.
The Customs spokesperson added that the officer had not fully resumed duties at the unit before his death.
“The officer had not fully resumed duties here. He only reported and went on leave. We cannot confirm anything beyond what the family has communicated to us,” he added.
Before his death, Gwamis served as a senior officer of the Nigeria Customs Service.
His passing has left family members, colleagues and residents of Boi District grieving as they prepare for his burial on Wednesday.
