At the Lion of Judah Parish, Redeemed Christian Church of God, Isiokpi, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, a profound air of grief hangs heavy as the late Access Bank boss, Herbert Wigwe, his wife, Chizoba, and son, Chizi, are laid to rest. Tears flow freely, capturing the deep sorrow that blankets this somber occasion.
This heart-wrenching funeral marks the culmination of a tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Herbert Wigwe, his wife, Doreen, son, Chizzy, and former Managing Director of the Nigerian Exchange Group, Abimbola Ogunbanjo, in the US on February 9. Their mortal remains arrived in the country, setting the stage for today's solemn burial rites.
A roll call of distinguished figures attending the funeral reflects the profound impact and widespread respect for the departed souls. Governors Sim Fubara (Rivers), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), and Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos) stand alongside Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom state, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo state, and the esteemed King of Okochiri Kingdom, Ateke Tom.
Prominent figures from the business world include Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group; Chibuike Amaechi, former Minister of Transportation; Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate; and former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, all paying their respects.
The political arena is well-represented with the presence of the immediate past Bayelsa Governor, Senator Seriake Dickson, and former Ekiti Governor, Kayode Fayemi. Dr. Godknows Igali, a former Nigerian Ambassador, and Olatunji Disu, the state's Commissioner of Police and chief security officer of the ceremony, also grace the occasion.
In attendance are members of the clergy, traditional rulers from Omoeke, Wigwe's hometown, and monarchs from Isiokpo, reflecting a convergence of diverse communities in mourning.
The poignant images from the funeral encapsulate the collective grief and the dignified farewell accorded to Herbert Wigwe, his wife, and son. In this moment of sorrow, the unity of hearts in mourning resonates as a testament to the profound impact and legacy left behind by these respected individuals.
