President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has called the death of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CEO of Access Holdings Plc, “an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension.”
This followed the official confirmation of a helicopter accident that killed the top banker, former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc., Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo, as well as members of the Wigwe family.
The President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, stated on Sunday, expressing sorrow and great grief over the deaths of outstanding Nigerian business leaders.
‘President Tinubu mourns CEO of Access Holdings Plc, Herbert Wigwe, former group chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group, Abimbola Ogunbanjo, and family members.’
Wigwe passed away in a helicopter crash in California, near the Nevada border, on Friday.
On Sunday, Access Holdings plc acknowledged the helicopter crash and the deaths.
A statement signed by the Group Company Secretary, Sunday Ekwochi, read:
“It is with deep sadness that the Board of Directors of Access Holdings Plc (‘the Company’) announces the passing of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CFR, the Company’s founding Group Chief Executive Officer and former Group Managing Director of its flagship subsidiary Access Bank Plc (‘the Bank’).
“Dr. Wigwe died alongside his wife and son on Friday, February 9, 2024 in a helicopter accident in the United States of America.“The entire Access family mourns the loss of Herbert, Doreen, and Chizi. We extend our deep and sincere sympathies to his family and loved ones.”
According to US officials, preliminary assessments indicate that the disaster was caused by inclement conditions.
The President expressed condolences to the Wigwe and Ogunbanjo families, the business community, and all those affected by this tragic occurrence.
“President Tinubu prays for the peaceful repose of the departed and asks God Almighty to comfort the multitude of Nigerians who are grieving and the families of the deceased at this deeply agonising moment,” said Ngelale
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