The Deputy Comptroller, of Finance Administration and Technical Service of the Nigerian Customs Service, Essien Etop Andrew, is dead.
Essien Andrew died at the National Assembly Clinic in Abuja on Tuesday after being summoned to the national assembly for questioning.
The Public Accounts Committee of the House of Representatives summoned him on Tuesday as part of an ongoing probe of revenue-generating agencies and parastatals of government.
During the proceedings, while addressing the committee on the remittance of levies into designated government accounts, Andrew suddenly paused and asked for water “Sir, I need to take water.”
The Chairman of the Committee, Bamidele Salam, responded, “You need to take water, sir? Yes, go ahead! Or if you need tea… Do you need tea?”
The customs boss repeated, “I may need to take water” and then he collapsed.
The House later announced his death in a statement signed later by the spokesman for the House, Akin Rotimi.
The statement read in part, “It is with deep sadness and regret that 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. “During the engagement, which occurred around 1 pm on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, the official developed sudden health complications. Despite the immediate and diligent efforts of first responders and medical personnel at the National Assembly Clinic, he unfortunately passed away.
“The House of Representatives extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased during this difficult time. We recognise the significant contributions he made to the Nigeria Customs Service and our nation.
“The House of Representatives stands ready to support efforts to understand the incident circumstances and is cooperating fully with all relevant authorities to ensure all necessary protocols are followed.
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas expressed his condolences, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of a dedicated public servant. Our hearts go out to his family during this difficult time.
Further details will be provided as they become available, and the family’s privacy is requested to be respected during this period of mourning.
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