Deputy Comptroller of Finance Administration and Technical Service, Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Andrew Essien, slumped and died at the National Assembly, yesterday, during an investigative hearing by the House of Representatives.
NCS confirmed that Essien slumped while fielding questions from the members of the House Committee on Public Account. The Guardian learnt that the Customs official developed sudden health complications while fielding questions from the committee. Immediate and diligent efforts of first responders and medical personnel at the National Assembly Clinic to revive him failed.
The panel was questioning some Customs officials in the ongoing probe of revenue-generating agencies and parastatals of the government.
Spokesman of the House, Akin Rotimi, confirmed the incident in a statement. He said, “It is with deep sadness and regret that we confirm the passing of an esteemed official of NCS, who was at the National Assembly for an engagement with a House Committee. During the engagement around 1.00 pm on Tuesday, the official developed sudden health complications.
“The House extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased during this difficult time. We recognise the significant contributions he made to the Service and our nation.”
Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, stated: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of a dedicated public servant. Our hearts go out to his family during this difficult time. Further information will be provided as it becomes available. We ask for patience and respect for the privacy of the family during this period of mourning.”
Chairman of the House committee, Bamidele Salam, said the panel would suspend other hearings for one week to honour the late Customs chief.
He said, “It was a very sad he died in active service. 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.”
A statement by Customs spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada, said: “Deputy Comptroller Essien was born on November 16, 1967 and joined NCS on November 27, 1989 with over three decades of service to our nation. Hailing from Nsit-Ubium in Akwa Ibom State, he was known for his diligence and exceptional service record in the Accounts Unit. His role as the DC Revenue was pivotal in ensuring the accurate reconciliation of revenue, which he performed with utmost precision and dedication.
“The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, on behalf of the entire officers and men of NCS, extends heartfelt condolences to the Essien family.”
He pledged that the Service would forever remember Essien for his outstanding contributions, exemplary service and dedication to the nation.
“We honour his memory, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all,” NCS declared.
From Sodiq Omolaoye and Ernest Nzor, Abuja
