Just In: Customs Deputy Comptroller Slumps, Dies

The deputy comptroller of finance administration and technical service at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Essien Etop Andrew is dead.

Andrew, reportedly died while responding to questions from members of the house of representatives committee on public account.

He reportedly coughed and slumped, but was confirmed dead after being rushed to the national assembly clinic.

Reacting to the incident, 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.

“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,” the lawmaker was quoted to have said.

Meanwhile, in a statement, Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the house of representatives, said the green chamber will “support efforts to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident and is cooperating fully with all relevant authorities to ensure all necessary protocols are followed”.

Tajudeen Abbas, speaker of the house, expressed his condolences, saying the lower legislative chamber is “deeply saddened” by the officer’s death.