A senior officer of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) unexpectedly died on Tuesday afternoon while attending an official engagement at the National Assembly. The incident occurred during a session before the House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts.
The unfortunate event was confirmed by Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., the House Spokesman and Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs. In a statement, Rep. Rotimi Jr. refrained from disclosing the deceased’s name but detailed the circumstances of the incident.
According to Rep. Rotimi Jr., the official developed sudden health issues around 1:00 PM on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, while interacting with the legislative committee. Despite the prompt and thorough efforts of first responders and medical staff at the National Assembly Clinic, the official could not be saved.
Sources from LEADERSHIP identified the deceased as Essien Etop Andrew, a Deputy Comptroller in charge of Finance Administration and Technical Service at the Nigeria Customs Service.
“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,” Rep. Rotimi Jr. stated. He reiterated that despite immediate medical intervention, the official succumbed to his condition.
In expressing his condolences, Rep. Rotimi Jr. mentioned that out of respect for the family, the deceased’s name would not be officially disclosed at this time. “The House of Representatives extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased during this difficult time,” he added. “We recognize the significant contributions he made to the Nigeria Customs Service and to our nation.”
The House of Representatives has committed to supporting efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and is fully cooperating with relevant authorities to ensure that all necessary protocols are followed. The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, also expressed his condolences, emphasizing the loss of a dedicated public servant and offering sympathy to the bereaved family.
Further information will be released to the public as it becomes available, and Rep. Rotimi Jr. requested patience and respect for the family’s privacy during this period of mourning.