Outing Service Held for Herbert Wigwe, Wife, and Son After Week-Long Funeral Rites

An outing service was conducted for Herbert Wigwe, his wife, Chizoba, and son, Chizi, who were laid to rest in the late businessman’s hometown of Omueke, Isiokpo in Rivers State. The service, which took place on Sunday at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Lion of Judah Parish in Isiokpo, followed a day of dignitary-filled funeral proceedings in the oil-rich state.

Notable personalities in attendance included Senate President Godswill Akpabio, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, business mogul Aliko Dangote, HRH Muhammadu Sanusi II, Governor Alex Otti, Governor Dapo Abiodun, former Senate President Bukola Saraki, Governor Babajide Sawno-Olu, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, and other prominent captains of industry. Also present were Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara and State Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu, who served as the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the burial ceremony.

Herbert, Chizoba, and Chizi Wigwe, alongside former Group Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group) Abimbola Ogunbanjo and two pilots, lost their lives in a tragic helicopter crash near Halloran Springs, California, on February 9. While the exact cause of the crash remains unknown, witnesses reported a mix of rain and snow in the area on the day of the incident.

During a night of tributes in Lagos, Aliko Dangote emotionally described Herbert Wigwe as a pillar of support to him and his family. He announced the renaming of the road leading to the Dangote Refinery after Wigwe. Representing President Bola Tinubu at the event, Vice President Kashim Shettima described Wigwe as a beacon of hope whose departure came at an untimely moment.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State praised Wigwe for embodying the true spirit of Lagos and being a “completely detribalized” individual. Sanwo-Olu stated that Lagos would never forget him. Tochi Wigwe, eulogizing her late father, described him as committed and devoted, highlighting his ability to turn everything he touched into gold while remaining a steadfast anchor for his family and friends.

Former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, was visibly emotional as he paid tribute to his “brother” Wigwe, recalling how Wigwe had supported him during his dethronement as Emir. Sanusi expressed regret that Wigwe had passed away before him, remarking on their close bond and Wigwe’s unwavering loyalty.