PUNCH
The Deputy Comptroller, Finance Administration and Technical Service of the Nigerian Customs Service, Essien Etop Andrew, is dead.
Andrew died at the National Assembly Clinic in Abuja on Tuesday.
He was a guest of the Public Account Committee of the House of Representatives where he appeared for questioning on Tuesday in continuation of the ongoing probe of revenue-generating agencies and parastatals of government.
While addressing the committee on remittance of levies into designated government accounts, Andrew suddenly paused and said “Sir, I need to take water.”
The Chairman of the Committee, Bamidele Salam, responded, “You need to take water, sir? Yes, go ahead! Or if you need tea… Do you need tea?”
The customs boss repeated, “I may need to take water,” and then collapsed.
The House later announced his death in a statement signed later by the spokesman for the House, Akin Rotimi.
The statement read in part, “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 pm 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.
“Out of respect for the family, the official’s name will not be disclosed at this time.
