- Already bought a travel ticket and made other logistics arrangements before Wigwe’s sudden death
The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, on Sunday morning said he will be conspicuously absent in Abidjan, Cote Ivoire later today as Super Eagles of Nigeria take on the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in an epoch final of the Africa Football Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The former Anambra State Governor, who already bought a return travel ticket and was to depart Nigeria by 1 pm today for Abidjan and had also made other logistics arrangements, is going to miss the AFCON final over the devastating death of co-founder of Access Bank, Herbert Wigwe.
Wigwe died in the helicopter crash in California, USA on Saturday alongside his wife Chizoba, son, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former Group Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group).
As a result, Obi is in shock, and mourning and can no longer travel to Abidjan as already scheduled but his heart remains with the Super Eagles flag-bearers as he wishes them victory so as to bring home the trophy.
Writing about the deceased in his X handle, Obi said: “I’m deeply saddened by the tragic news of the passing of my dear friend, Mr. Herbert Wigwe, CEO of Access Holdings, along with his wife and son, and another close friend, Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former group chairman of NGX Group. This loss is profoundly felt across the nation.
“I first met Herbert during his early days, on the brink of starting his marital journey. I vividly remember assisting him in preparing for his traditional wedding and being there for the ceremony with his wife, Chizoba, from Achina, Anambra State. Since then, I’ve maintained a connection to his endeavors in my own modest ways.
“Herbert, a determined and forward-thinking individual, led Access Bank to new heights following his brother Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede. His noteworthy contributions extended beyond the professional realm, with commendable philanthropic efforts in health and education, exemplified by the establishment of Wigwe University, showcasing his deep commitment to education as a driver of development.
“The loss of such an exceptional individual reminds us of life’s fleeting nature, encouraging us to live with a purpose that contributes to the betterment of humanity.
“My heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Herbert, his beloved wife, his son, and all those who lost their lives in the tragic plane crash.
‘May God grant them eternal rest and provide strength to Herbert’s family, Access Holdings, and all of us mourning this irreplaceable loss. -PO.”
Obi, a staunch supporter of the Super Eagles from his days as Governor of Anambra State (2006-2014), was in Abidjan to cheer the Eagles to victory during their quarter-final match against Angola and had already purchased a return ticket and was to the West African country before tragedy struck in the United States that devastated him.
Obi’s love for football dates back to his days as a student at Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha during which he was also an ardent supporter of Rangers International of Enugu and the old Green Eagles. As a Governor he further demonstrated his love for the game when he renamed the Onitsha Township Stadium in Fegge, Onitsha after the first National team Captain, Godwin Achebe.