The tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Herbert Wigwe, his wife Chizoba, and their son, along with former Group Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group) Abimbola Ogunbanjo, has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political, business, and social circles.
Herbert Wigwe, the Co-founder and Group CEO of Access Holdings Plc, was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s banking and business sectors. His untimely demise, along with his family and Ogunbanjo, has left the nation in mourning.
Wigwe’s Special Assistant, Faleye Olusola, narrowly escaped the tragedy by choosing not to board the ill-fated helicopter due to weather concerns. This miraculous escape underscores the randomness of fate in such tragic events.
The Access Holdings Plc released a statement expressing shock and grief over the incident, emphasizing their collaboration with US authorities to gather more information about the crash.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other dignitaries, including French President Emmanuel Macron, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and WTO Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, conveyed their condolences to the families of the deceased. Macron praised Wigwe’s efforts in strengthening the relationship between France and Nigeria through his leadership of the French-Nigeria Business Council.
The helicopter crash occurred near the California-Nevada border, with US authorities confirming no survivors. The FAA and NTSB are investigating the cause of the crash, which occurred in adverse weather conditions.
Herbert Wigwe was widely respected for his leadership in the banking sector and his philanthropic efforts. His death is a significant loss to Nigeria and Africa’s business community.
In his recent social media posts, Wigwe appeared to have a premonition of his passing, urging people to appreciate life and live with purpose and gratitude.
The loss of Herbert Wigwe, his family, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo has left a void in Nigeria’s corporate world and in the hearts of those who knew them. Their contributions to the nation will be remembered, and their families are in the thoughts and prayers of many during this difficult time.