ONOME AMUGE
The small community of Isiokpo in Ikwerre Local Government Area in Rivers State was overwhelmed with the influx of thousands of mourners from all over the world on Saturday, March 9, as they gathered to bid farewell to the man that has now become popularly known as the “Fearless Banker” Herbert Wigwe, a beloved father, husband and finance industry luminary.
The poignant moment when the remains of Wigwe and his family arrived in Isiokpo was a reminder of the void that had been left behind. The loss of the eminent financial leader, known for his immense contributions to his community and country, was palpable in the sea of mourners who had gathered to pay their respects.
But amidst the sorrow, there was also a celebration of the lives of Doreen and Chizzy Wigwe, who had each made a lasting impact on the world. From the tributes of family and friends to the words of dignitaries from around the world, their individual legacies were cemented in the hearts of those who had known them.
Prominent figures from around the world, such as Bill Clinton, former US President; President Emmanuel Macron of France; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; Aliko Dangote, president, Dangote Group; Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, chairman, Coronation Group, Wigwe’s business partner, and former Access Bank Group CEO, paid tribute to Wigwe’s legacy. These diverse voices spoke to the far-reaching impact Wigwe had made, as a man who had transcended boundaries and left his mark on the global stage.
The tributes to Herbert Wigwe’s life and legacy were organised into distinct categories, each one capturing a different facet of the man’s remarkable journey. From the youthful ‘Herbert’ to the experienced banker, from the savvy entrepreneur to the skillful CEO, each segment spoke to a different aspect of the man’s legacy. This was in remembrance of a man who was not only brilliant and accomplished, but also humble and kind, with a passion for uplifting others and making a positive impact on the world.
In his tribute, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State governor spoke movingly of Wigwe’s contributions to the local community and the business world. He described Wigwe as a pillar of the community, a visionary leader, and a patriot who had made a lasting impact on the lives of many people.
Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Wigwe’s longtime friend and colleague, was clearly moved as he delivered his tribute. He spoke of their shared history, the fond memories they had created, and the immense passion and drive that Wigwe had always possessed. Aig-Imoukhuede described Wigwe as a man on a mission, someone who had always had big dreams and ambitions and had worked tirelessly to achieve them.
In his words, “Herbert was committed to building an African continent where men and women can aspire and live to their full potential. He isn’t the only person committed to this objective, but there are very few people in the world whose life and legacy illuminate this commitment the way Herbert Wigwe has.
“Some have told me that in the last few months, Herbert was very concerned about the state of our nation and continent. This is indeed true and Herbert knew that time was not on our side.”
As Aig-Imoukhuede put it, Wigwe’s legacy was not just about the individual successes he had achieved, but rather about the impact he had made on others and the contributions he had made to a shared vision for Africa’s future.
A veritable who’s who of Nigeria’s political, economic, and social elite were in attendance at the burial ceremony for Wigwe and his family, including Senate President Godswill Akpobio; Olawale Edun, minister of finance; Bukola Saraki, former senate president; Aminu Tambuwal, former speaker of the House of Representatives and Governors Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Alex Otti (Abia), Douye Diri (Bayelsa) and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom).
Joining them were other influential figures, including Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election; Rotimi Amaechi, former minister of transportation; Khalifa Sanusi, former CBN governor, as well as former state governors, James Ibori (Delta); Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), Celestine Omehia, (Rivers); amongst others.
In his speech, Senate President Godswill Akpabio spoke on behalf of the federal government and the National Assembly, describing Wigwe as a global citizen and iconic figure whose legacy was defined by his generosity and his commitment to helping others. Akpabio noted that Wigwe had invested heavily in the lives of many people, both in his native Nigeria and around the world.
Akpabio also highlighted Wigwe’s role as a mentor and role model, noting that he had inspired and motivated countless younger people to strive for their own success. He emphasised Wigwe’s message that hard work and determination were the keys to achieving great things, and that with the right mindset, anyone could reach their full potential.
The senate president also described Wigwe as a global banker, highlighting his international reach and influence. He noted that Wigwe’s legacy in education would be one of his greatest achievements, with his impact on students and educational institutions set to be felt for generations to come.
“It’s not how long you lived but how well and the impact. Here is a young man who left so much impact that generations unborn [would come to hear about]; he gave food to so many people in Nigeria and globally. Many countries in Africa, in Dubai, other places, he was in China, he did a lot.
“He put food on the table of so many people in the world. So, I regarded him as a global citizen. it’s very unfortunate that he died together with his wife and first son,” Akpabio stated.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State pledged to honour Wigwe’s legacy by ensuring the success of the Wigwe University, a key project that Wigwe had been passionate about. Fubara stressed that this was the only initiative that bore Wigwe’s name, and that it was critical to uphold the university’s mission and vision in order to keep his memory alive.
Fubara pointed out the importance of making a positive impact in the world, especially for those in need. He stressed that life is a journey that will eventually come to an end, but that it is the mark we leave behind that truly matters. Wigwe, he said, had exemplified this ideal through his many charitable efforts and initiatives.
During her tribute, Tochi Wigwe, the deceased’s daughter, shared a more intimate and personal side of her father. She spoke of his deep love and commitment to his family, and the special moments they had shared together. She painted a picture of a man who was not only a successful businessman, but also a caring and devoted father.
She said, “In this moment, for the first time, your words resonate deeply within me. No longer do I want to tilt my head and squint my eyes in confusion. You were simply extraordinary. I could never fathom how you managed to do it all; it seemed inconceivable. Turning everything you touched to gold while remaining an unwavering anchor for your family and friends. You’ve left me with enormous shoes to fill but you’ve also gifted me with an unwavering support system.”
The week-long series of funeral rites and tributes came to a close as the bodies of Wigwe, his wife, and his son were laid to rest in a private burial ceremony and an outing service at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Lion of Judah Parish in Isiokpo.
