The late Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings PLC, Herbert Wigwe’s hometown in the Ikwerrre Local Government Area of Rivers State, has declared seven days of mourning in honour of their illustrious son.
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, United States on Friday.
It was also reported that Herbert Wigwe opened a multi-billion-naira mansion in Ikoyi, Lagos, weeks before his death.
“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.”
However, the Nye-Nwe-Eli of Isiokpo, His Royal Majesty, Eze Blessing Ahiazunwo Wagor, on Tuesday, declared seven days of mourning in his honour.
Starting Wednesday, the seven days of mourning are to witness the closure of all businesses on the first and last day, with half-day operations on the other days.
Channels TV reports that the community’s residents were dressed in black clothes, reflecting the mood of the moment.
In a statement on Sunday, President Tinubu had 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.”