A senior officer from the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) tragically passed away while being questioned by the House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts at the National Assembly.
The officer had been summoned to the Public Accounts Committee as part of an ongoing investigation into the revenue generation activities of various governmental agencies and parastatals. During the session, he suddenly collapsed while responding to the committee’s inquiries.
He was immediately taken to the National Assembly clinic, where, despite prompt medical attention, he was declared dead.
Representative Akin Rotimi, Jr., the House Spokesman and Chairman of the House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, confirmed the incident in an official statement. He mentioned that the officer experienced “sudden health complications” during the session, which began around 1:00 pm on Tuesday, June 25, 2024.
“It is with profound sadness and regret that we announce the passing of a respected official from the Nigeria Customs Service who was present at the National Assembly for a session with a House Committee. Despite the swift and diligent efforts of first responders and medical personnel at the National Assembly Clinic, he sadly passed away,” Rotimi stated.
The House chose not to disclose the officer’s identity out of respect for his family.
“The House of Representatives extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased during this challenging period. We acknowledge the significant contributions he made to the Nigeria Customs Service and our country,” Rotimi added.
He also assured that the House is committed to supporting efforts to investigate the circumstances of the incident and is cooperating fully with relevant authorities to ensure all necessary protocols are observed.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, expressed his sympathies, saying, “We are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of a dedicated public servant. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”