Victor Ezeja
President Bola Tinubu, and billionaire investors, Tony Elumelu and Femi Otedola, have expressed grief over the tragic loss of Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc., Dr Herbert Wigwe, who died in a helicopter accident.
READ ALSO: Herbert Wigwe: Death Hits Access Holdings 3 Times In 3 Months
Join our WhatsApp ChannelWigwe died alongside his wife, son and former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, Abimbola Ogunbanjo on Friday, 9 February 2024.
According to a statement released on Sunday by the president’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu said he received the news “with shock and deep distress.”
The president, who described the pasing of these exceptional Nigerian business leaders as “an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension,” condoled with their families, the business community, and all those impacted by this harrowing incident.
“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 agonizing moment,” Ngelale added.
‘Africa Lost Two Brightest Minds’
Elumelu in a message posted on his X handle titled “Tribute to Great Lights – True Patriots,” said Africa has indeed lost two “brightest minds,” adding that their untimely death “is terribly sad and distressing.”
Elumelu said he admired both Wigwe and Ogunbajo for their traits and they all shared the common desire to drive Nigeria’s transformation.
Elumelu hailed the virtues of Wigwe and Ogunbajo that enabled them to achieve enviable success in their endeavors, adding that they “will be sorely missed by all.”
“Herbert was an exceptional talent, committed to advancing the banking and financial sector in Nigeria, with Access Holdings. Likewise, Bimbo’s tenure as Group chairman of the NGX group was distinguished by excellence,” Elumelu stated.
“Their leadership and entrepreneurial drive will continue to serve as shining examples to millions of our young people.”
He prayed for peaceful repose of Ogunbajo, Wigwe, his wife, Chizoba, and his son, Chizi, adding “May God give their immediate families strength and grace in this difficult time.”
‘I’m saddened by loss of a banking genius’
On his part, Otedola said he is saddened to hear the news of the loss of Wigwe and others.
Otedola recalled that two weeks ago, he and Aliko Dangote were hosted by Wigwe and his wife for a dinner in Wigwe’s newly built Lagos home.
“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,’’ Otedola stated.
The billionaire businessman conveyed his heartfelt condolences to Wigwe’s children left behind – Tochi, Hannah and David – and prayed that God comforts them during this tragic time.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
