11th February, 2024
By Isa Isawade
The management of Access Holdings Plc has finally announced the passing of its Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Herbert Wigwe, CFR.
The Management had earlier informed the public that it was yet to have adequate information about the incident and, therefore, could not address it.
“We have received numerous inquiries concerning an airplane crash in the USA.
“Presently, we lack specific information; however, we are actively collaborating with US authorities who will furnish updates.
“Your understanding and support are valued, and we commit to keeping you informed promptly as we receive updates on the situation,” the management had said in the announcement.
It has, however, now officially announced the tragic death of its founding Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer alongside his wife and son on Friday 9 Feb. 2024, in a helicopter crash in California, U.S.A.
The statement read in part: “The entire Access Family mourns the loss of Herbert, Doreen and Chizi. We extend our deep and sincere sympathies to his family and loved ones. Dr. Wigwe was a key driving force and a larger-than-life personality who brought his remarkable passion, energy and experience to the transformation of the Access franchise since joining the Bank in 2002.”
The Chairman of Access Holdings, Mr Abubakar Jimoh, also said in the statement that “The Access Family has suffered a major loss with the passing of Dr. Wigwe who was a great friend and fine gentleman. He had a prodigious intellect, admirable personal qualities and vast business experience which he brought to bear on the Access Family and for which we owe him a debt of gratitude.”
Jimoh also used the opportunity to inform the public that the Board would soon announce the appointment of an Acting CEO.
Herbert Wigwe, his wife, son and three others including Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former group chairman of NGX Group died in a helicopter crash in California.
The plane crashed Friday night near Nipton, California, with six people on board, the Federal Aviation Administration said.
No survivor has yet been found, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department said in a statement.