Deputy Comptroller Etop Andrew Essien, a senior officer of the Nigerian Customs Service, tragically slumped and died on Tuesday while responding to questions from lawmakers at the Public Accounts Committee of the House of Representatives.
Essien suddenly developed health complications during the questioning session and collapsed.
Despite immediate efforts by medical personnel at the National Assembly Clinic, they were unable to revive him. The incident has cast a pall over the proceedings, prompting an outpouring of condolences from his colleagues and the wider community.
The officer had been summoned for questioning as part of an ongoing investigation into revenue-generating agencies and government parastatals. During the session, he suddenly collapsed and was immediately rushed to the National Assembly clinic, where he later died.
Honourable Akin Rotimi, the House spokesperson, confirmed the unfortunate event in a statement. “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. Despite the immediate and diligent efforts of first responders and medical personnel at the National Assembly Clinic, he unfortunately passed away.”
The statement further expressed condolences to the officer’s family and explained that his name would be withheld out of respect. “The House of Representatives extends its heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased during this difficult time. We recognize the significant contributions he made to the Nigeria Customs Service and our nation.”
Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, also expressed his sorrow, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of a dedicated public servant. Our hearts go out to his family during this difficult time.”
The House of Representatives has pledged full cooperation with relevant authorities to understand the circumstances surrounding the incident.
