ESSIEN Andrew, a deputy comptroller of the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) on Tuesday collapsed during questioning before a House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts.
Mr Andrew, who was in charge of Finance, Administration, and Technical Service of the NIS, was answering questions on the revenue of the Service when he coughed repeatedly and requested water.
Before he could be given water, the officer collapsed and was rushed to the National Assembly clinic, where he was pronounced dead.
Announcing Mr Andrew’s demise, Akin Rotimi, the spokesperson of the House, said the officer developed health complications during the interaction with the lawmakers.
“During the engagement, which occurred around 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, 25 June 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,” Mr Rotimi said in a statement.
Also, Bamidele Salam, Chairman of the Committee, said the panel will suspend other hearings for one week to honour the late Customs chief.
“It was a very sad incident. He was very eloquent and clearly understood the issues being considered,” the lawmaker stated.
“He suddenly said he wanted to drink water, to which we obliged and even asked if he needed some tea.
“It was sad he died in active service. Our committee is suspending other hearings for the week in his honour.”
Eighteen-Eleven Media