The late Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, Herbert Wigwe, alongside his wife, Chizoba, and son, Chizi, were honored with a private interment in their hometown of Omueke, Isiokpo, Rivers State. The solemn ceremony followed a funeral church service held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Lion of Judah Parish, Isiokpo.
Saturday’s funeral service, which commenced at 11:00 am, was preceded by a Christian wake keep to honor the departed souls. Hundreds of mourners, including friends, associates, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond, gathered in Isiokpo to bid farewell to the trio.
Dignitaries present at the service included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, business mogul Aliko Dangote, HRH Muhammadu Sanusi II, Gov. Alex Otti, Gov. Dapo Abiodun, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, Gov. Babajide Sawno-Olu, former Anambra State Gov. Peter Obi, and several other prominent figures from the business and political spheres.
Also in attendance were Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara and State Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu, who oversaw security arrangements for the burial ceremony. Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State and former Nigerian diplomat Dr. Godknows Igali were among those who paid their respects.
Herbert, Chizoba, and Chizi Wigwe, along with former Group Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group) Abimbola Ogunbanjo and two pilots, were tragically killed in the Airbus Helicopter EC 130B4 crash near Halloran Springs, California, on February 9, 2024. The exact cause of the crash remains under investigation, with preliminary reports suggesting adverse weather conditions.
Wigwe’s untimely demise has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian banking industry, prompting tributes from colleagues, associates, and family members. Aliko Dangote fondly remembered Wigwe as a supportive brother and friend, renaming a road leading to the Dangote Refinery in his honor during a tribute event in Lagos.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, hailed Wigwe as a beacon of hope and visionary leader who left a lasting impact on the banking sector and his community. Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised Wigwe as a true embodiment of Lagos’ spirit, emphasizing his “completely detribalized” nature.
In an emotional tribute, Tochi Wigwe, daughter of the late banker, hailed her father’s commitment and influence in shaping her life. Former Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II struggled to contain his grief as he remembered Wigwe’s loyalty and support, lamenting his departure before his own.
Sola Faleye, Wigwe’s personal assistant, recounted the poignant final moments with his boss before the tragic crash, highlighting Wigwe’s kindness and the twist of fate that spared his life.
Several other dignitaries, including Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Yemi Cardoso, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and President of the African Development Bank Group Akinwumi Adesina, also paid heartfelt tributes to the late Access Bank chief.