*Pix above: Mr. Andrew at National Assembly
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A senior officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has slumped and died while being interrogated by the House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts at the National Assembly complex.
The deceased was a guest of the Public Account Committee of the House of Representatives where he appeared for questioning in the ongoing probe of revenue-generating agencies and parastatals of government.
He was said to be fielding questions from members of the committee when he collapsed.
He was subsequently rushed to the National Assembly clinic where he gave up the ghost.
A statement signed by the House Spokesman/Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., confirmed the incident.
According to him, the officer developed “sudden health complications” during the engagement, which occurred at about 1.00 pm on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.
He said: “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 1.00 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, however, did not disclose the identity of the officer “out of respect for the family.”
He said, “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 to our nation.
“The House of Representatives stands ready to support efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and is cooperating fully with all relevant authorities to ensure all necessary protocols are followed.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, 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.”
Though the House Committee did not disclose his name for the foregoing reason, The State Online reliably gathered his name was Mr Essien Etop Andrew, the Deputy Comptroller, Finance, Administration and Technical Service of the Nigerian Customs Service{agency}/PLEASE SHARE
