Andrew Essien, a deputy comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), tragically passed away on Tuesday after collapsing while being questioned by the House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts.
The incident occurred around 1:00 p.m. during a session where Mr. Essien, who was in charge of revenue in the NCS’s Account Unit, was answering questions about customs revenue.
During the questioning, Mr. Essien coughed and requested water, saying, “Sir, I might need to take some water.” As he struggled to open the bottle in front of him, he collapsed. His colleague attempted to assist, but Mr. Essien was rushed to the National Assembly Clinic, where he was pronounced dead.
Announcing Mr. Essien’s demise, Akin Rotimi, the spokesperson of the House, stated that the officer developed health complications during the interaction with the lawmakers.
“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.
The Public Accounts Committee (PAC), chaired by Bamidele Salam (PDP, Osun), was conducting its routine investigation into the NCS’s activities when the incident occurred.
The Nigeria Customs Service, in a statement by its spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, expressed profound sadness over the loss of the officer.
“Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. His exemplary service and unwavering commitment to duty will be remembered and cherished by the entire NCS community,” the statement read.
The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, also paid tribute to Mr. Essien’s contributions and dedication to the nation. “The Nigeria Customs Service will forever remember Deputy Comptroller Essien for his outstanding contributions, his exemplary service, and his dedication to the nation. We honour his memory, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all,” Mr. Adeniyi said.
Andrew Essien was born on November 16, 1967, and joined the Nigeria Customs Service on November 27, 1989.
