“Make BP, Heart Tests Mandatory” – Shehu Sani to NASS Following Customs Officer’s Death

In a call to action following the death of Deputy Comptroller Etop Andrew Essien, human rights activist and former senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has urged the National Assembly to mandate blood pressure and heart checks for public officials before they appear before its committees.

Sani made his appeal through his official X handle, reacting to the tragic death of Essien, who served as the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Revenue in the Account Unit of the Customs Service. Essien collapsed and died on Tuesday while being questioned by the House of Representatives Committee on Public Accounts.

“The National Assembly should make it a rule to conduct blood pressure tests and heart checks of public officials summoned to appear before their relevant committees,” Sani stated.

Essien’s collapse occurred shortly after he was heard requesting water, struggling to open a bottle in front of him. Akin Rotimi, spokesperson for the House, confirmed that Essien developed health complications during his interaction with the lawmakers.