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

The customs officer was fielding questions from members of the House of Representatives committee on Public Account when he coughed and slumped.

Andrew was rushed to the National Assembly clinic where he was confirmed dead.

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,” the lawmaker said.

“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.”

In an earlier 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”.

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