Weeks Before His Death, Access Bank CEO, Wigwe Opened Multi-Billion Naira Mansion
Herbert Wigwe, the late Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, opened a multi-billion-naira mansion in Ikoyi, Lagos, weeks before his death.
Wigwe died alongside five others including his wife, Chizoba, son, Chizi and Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc in a helicopter crash in California, US on Friday.
“Many aides described the house as one of a kind in the area of Ikoyi known as Queen’s Drive,’ a source said.
“The house was described as state-of-the-art, with full automation.”
Earlier on Sunday, Nigerian businessman and former chairman of Forte Oil Plc, Femi Otedola, said the Wigwes hosted him and the richest African, Aliko Dangote at the newly built house two weeks earlier.
“I am shocked and saddened to hear of the loss of a banking genius Herbert Wigwe, his dear wife Chizoba and first son Chizi.
“Exactly two weeks ago Herbie and his wife hosted myself and Aliko to dinner at his newly built home in Lagos. I will cherish and fondly remember my memories of time spent together with him over the years.”
“Herbie, we will all miss you. Your legacy will live on forever.
“My heartfelt condolences go out to his children Tochi, Hannah and David. I pray God comforts them during this tragic time.
“May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace…,” he said.
President Bola Tinubu in a statement earlier on Sunday described the death of Wigwe and others in the helicopter as shocking and distressing.
In a statement on Sunday, President Tinubu said, “I am shocked and deeply distressed by the news of the passing of Mr. Herbert Wigwe, a distinguished banker, humanitarian, and entrepreneur, and Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, along with members of the Wigwe family – Herbert’s wife, Chizoba, and son, Chizi.
“Their passing is an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension.
“I extend my condolences to the Wigwe and Ogunbanjo families, the business community, and all those impacted by this harrowing incident.
“I pray for the peaceful repose of the departed and ask God Almighty to comfort the multitude of Nigerians who are grieving and the families of the deceased at this deeply agonizing moment.”
