Otedola Mourns Herbert Wigwe, Recalls Dinner With Dangote At Late Access Bank CEO’s New Home

Nigerian businessman, Femi Otedola has shared details about the recent hospitality extended to him and fellow businessman Aliko Dangote by the late Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, Herbert Wigwe, at his new residence just two weeks before his death.

Wigwe alongside his wife and son were on board an ill-fated helicopter that crashed near Nevada border in California, United States on Friday.

Also on board the chopper were the former chairman of Nigeria Exchange Group, Abimbola Ogunbajo, and two others.

United States Authorities revealed that preliminary reports suggested the crash was caused by rain and wintry weather.

Minutes after the official confirmation of Wigwe’s death, Otedola, in a short message posted on X on Sunday, described the death as a loss of “a banking genius”.

He stated that he will cherish the memories of time spent together.

“Exactly two weeks ago, Herbie and his wife hosted myself and Aliko to dinner at his newly built home in Lagos. I will cherish and fondly remember my memories of time spent together with him over the years.

“Herbie, we will all miss you.

“Your leagcy will live on forever.

“My heartfelt condolences go out to his children Tochi, Hannah and David. I pray God comforts them during this tragic time,” Otedola wrote on X.

I am shocked and saddened to hear of the loss of a banking genius Herbert Wigwe, his dear wife Chizoba and first son Chizi.

Exactly two weeks ago Herbie and his wife hosted myself and Aliko to dinner at his newly built home in Lagos. I will cherish and fondly remember my… pic.twitter.com/jJDq7vZpLa

— Femi Ote$ (@realFemiOtedola) February 11, 2024

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has described the death of Wigwe, as “an overwhelming tragedy that is shocking beyond comprehension.”

“Bola Tinubu receives the news with shock and deep distress… and mourns these exceptional Nigerian business leaders,” a statement on Sunday by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, read.