Wigwes’ burial: Police speak on security plans as corpses land in Port Harcourt

By Okafor Ofiebor/Port Harcourt

Just as the corpses of late Herbert Wigwe, wife and son arrived at the Port Harcourt International Airport Omagwa today, Friday,the Rivers State Police Command has significantly beefed security in order to ensure a peaceful and well-organized burial ceremony.

The Command said in a press statement signed by its Spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko said in anticipation of the expected large gathering of mourners and guests from various parts of the world, it has deployed mobile police personnel from the 19 PMF, 30 PMF, 46 PMF, 55 PMF, 56 PMF, 58 PMF, State Intelligence Department (SID), undercover personnel, as well as tactical units and conventional police officers from Bayelsa State for security in the State.

“This proactive measure is aimed at ensuring the safety and security of the venue and its surroundings, upholding the solemnity of the occasion, and maintaining public safety throughout the proceedings.

“The Rivers State Police Command kindly requests the cooperation of all residents and attendees, urging them to comply with the directives of law enforcement officials and adhere to designated security protocols. Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, has emphasized the importance of residents remaining law-abiding and carrying out their lawful activities while showing respect and consideration for the solemn nature of the event.

“Furthermore, the CP assures the public of the Police Command’s unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and order during this period of mourning. The Command stands ready to promptly address any security concerns and ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees.

“The Rivers State Police Command would like to extend its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the late Herbert Wigwe during this challenging time. May the souls of the departed rest in peace.”

Wigwe, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, his wife, son and a former Group Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, Abimbola Ogunbanjo, as well as some others died
in ill-fated Airbus Helicopter EC130B4 that crashed in the United States on 9 February, 2024.

The crash occured at the Interstate 15 in Halloran Springs, California, U.S.A.

According to initial findings the helicopter suffered catastrophic damage upon impact, resulting in fragmentation of major components.

The helicopter took off from Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, California to Boulder City Municipal Airport in Nevada via Palm Springs International Airport before it crashed due to adverse weather conditions characterised by rain and a mix of snow, were encountered, according to U.S aviation authorities.

Wigwe, his wife and son will be buried in Isikpo, in the outskirts of Port Harcourt on Saturday.