• Wednesday, May 01, 2024
businessday logo

BusinessDay

Sanwo-Olu mourns Wigwe

Wigwe’s PA recounts how luggage stopped him from joining ill-fated chopper

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has described the death of Herbert Wigwe, the group of Access Holdings plc, as devastating.

Wigwe died in a helicopter crash in California, U.S. A. on February 9. Wigwe, his wife, Doreen, and son, Chizi and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, a former group chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group plc, were also killed in the crash.

“I’m deeply saddened by the tragic loss of my dear brother and friend, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, his dear wife Doreen, and their beloved son, Chizi, in a helicopter crash.

“Herbert was not just a brother and visionary leader, but one of the brightest minds in Africa. His impact on our nation and beyond will be remembered forever. My heart mourns.

“Herbert’s contributions to banking and the financial sector in Africa were unparalleled. He was an unapologetic believer in the Nigerian solution. His dedication and passion for progress inspired us all.

“Today, we mourn not just a leader but a true friend and brother. Lagos and Nigeria have lost a remarkable soul. Rest in peace, my brother,” he said in a statement on Sunday.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also sent his condolences to the family and friends of Ogunbanjo.

“We also lost another great business leader and legal luminary, my elder (egbon) Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former group chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group plc, who contributed significantly to the development of the capital market and corporate law in Nigeria. May his soul rest in peace.

“In this difficult time, our thoughts are with the families of all the victims, and we pray for strength and grace,” he said.