Obi devastated by Wigwe’s death, drops plan to travel to Abidjan for AFCON final
By Jeffrey Agbo
Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, will be conspicuously absent in Abidjan, Cote Ivoire on Sunday as the Super Eagles of Nigeria take on the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in an epoch final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Obi, a staunch supporter of the Super Eagles from his days as governor of Anambra State (2006-2014) who was in Abidjan to cheer the Eagles to victory during their quarter-final match against Angola, had already purchased a return ticket and was to depart Nigeria by 1 pm on Sunday to Cote d’Ivoire before his friend, Herbert Wigwe, died in an helicopter crash in the United States alongside his wife and son and others.
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 governor, he further demonstrated his love for the game when he renamed the Onitsha township stadium in Fagge, Onitsha after the first National team Captain Godwin Achebe.
However, he will not watch the epic match following the helicopter crash in California, USA on Friday night that killed Wigwe, his wife and son, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former Group Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group).
A statement made available to TheNiche said Obi is in shock and mourning and can no longer travel to Abidjan as already scheduled but his heart remains with the boys as he wishes them victory to bring home the trophy.
READ ALSO:
Okonjo-Iweala, Saraki express shock, sadness over death of Access Bank CEO, Wigwe, console family
Writing about the deceased on 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.”