Essien Etop Andrew, the Deputy Comptroller of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) in charge of Finance Administration and Technical Services, collapsed and was pronounced dead at the National Assembly Clinic in Abuja.
Andrew was attending a Public Account Committee hearing at the House of Representatives, where he was being questioned about government parastatals and revenue-generating organizations.
In a startling sequence of events, Andrew, who was addressing the Public Account Committee, took a sudden pause and requested a glass of water. Committee Chairman Bamidele Salam quickly responded, suggesting both water and tea as options. However, despite his initial consent to continue with water, the customs boss repeated his need for hydration before collapsing in front of the committee.
His demise was announced in a statement signed by the spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Akin Rotimi.
“We confirm the passing of an esteemed official of the Nigeria Customs Service who was at the National Assembly for an engagement with a House Committee,” the statement read in part. We will not reveal the official’s name at this time out of courtesy for the family.
“During this trying time, the House of Representatives offers its sincere condolences to the deceased’s family, friends, and coworkers. We acknowledge the tremendous contributions he made to our country and the Nigeria Customs Service.”
The House of Representatives, while extending its condolences to the bereaved family and offering its support to them in this difficult time, has pledged to cooperate fully with relevant authorities in the investigation of the circumstances surrounding the NCS official’s sudden demise.
In his condolence message, the Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, expressed sadness at the passing of a committed public servant and extended sympathies on behalf of the entire legislative body.
“We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of a dedicated public servant,” he expressed.
