The remains of the late Herbert Wigwe, his wife, Chizoba, and son, Chizi, were laid to rest in their hometown of Omueke, Isiokpo in Rivers State, after a solemn funeral service attended by dignitaries from all walks of life.
Wigwe, who was the Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, died in a helicopter crash in California, USA, on February 9, 2024, along with his wife, son, and three others.
Held on Saturday, March 9, the funeral service at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Lion of Judah Parish, Isiokpo, was a celebration of the life and legacy of the late banker and philanthropist, described by mourners as a visionary and generous benefactor.
Among the mourners were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Minister of the FCT Nyesom Wike, Rotimi Amaechi, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, business mogul, Aliko Dangote, former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, and several governors, senators, ministers, and captains of industry.
In his sermon, the Bishop of Ikwerre Diocese, Rev. Blessing Enyindah, urged the congregation to emulate the good deeds of the late Wigwe, who he said touched many lives with his wealth and influence.
He also called on the government and the private sector to continue the projects and initiatives that the late Wigwe started, especially in the areas of education, health, and empowerment.
“Herbert Wigwe was a man who used his position and resources to make a difference in society. He was a man who had a passion for education, and he established Wigwe University in his hometown to provide quality and affordable education to the people. He was a man who cared for the health and well-being of the people, and he built hospitals and clinics in various communities.
“He was a man who empowered the youths and the women, and he created opportunities and platforms for them to thrive. He was a man who loved God and humanity, and he supported the church and the needy. He was a man who left a legacy that will live on,” the bishop said.
After the church service, the caskets bearing the remains of the late Wigwe, his wife and son, were conveyed in a motorcade to their residence in Omueke, where they were buried in a private ceremony.
The burial was followed by a reception at the Wigwe University auditorium, attended by family members, friends, associates, and well-wishers, who shared testimonies.
One of the speakers at the reception was the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, who pledged that the state government would support the Wigwe University to immortalise the late Wigwe.
Fubara said the state government would partner with the Wigwe Foundation to ensure that the university continues to operate and excel.
He also said the death of Wigwe had challenged him to question the political class on why they were struggling for power more than making impact on the lives of the people.
“Wigwe was not a politician, but he had more influence and control than most politicians, and he used his power for good,” said Fubara.
