Senior Customs officer slumps, dies during Reps investigation hearing

A senior personnel of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on Tuesday died while on an official assignment before the House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts at the National Assembly complex.

A statement signed by the House Spokesman/Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Rep. Akin Rotimi, Jr., confirmed the incident.

According to Rotimi, the incident occurred around 1.00pm on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, when the official developed sudden health complications, adding that despite the immediate and diligent efforts of first responders and medical personnel at the National Assembly Clinic, he unfortunately passed away.

The identity of the deceased official was however disclosed by several reports to be Essien Etop Andrew, a Deputy Comptroller, Finance Administration and Technical Service of 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.

“During the engagement, which occurred around 1.00pm 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.”