Access Holdings Plc has broken its silence on the death of its Chief Executive Officer, Herbert Wigwe.
The confirmation was made in a statement signed by the Group Company Secretary, Sunday Ekwochi, on Sunday.
“It is with deep sadness that the Board of Directors of Access Holdings Plc (‘the Company’) announces the passing of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, CFR, the Company’s founding Group Chief Executive Officer and former Group Managing Director of its flagship subsidiary Access Bank Plc (‘the Bank’).
“Dr. Wigwe died alongside his wife and son on Friday, February 9, 2024 in a helicopter accident in the United States of America.
“The entire Access Family mourns the loss of Herbert, Doreen and Chizi. We extend our deep and sincere sympathies to his family and loved ones.
“Dr. Wigwe was a key driving force and a larger-than-life personality who brought his remarkable passion, energy, and experience to the transformation of the Access franchise since joining the Bank in 2002.
“Commenting on the passage of Dr. Wigwe, Mr. Abubakar Jimoh, Chairman of Access Holdings said: “The Access Family has suffered a major loss with the passing of Dr. Wigwe who was a great friend and fine gentleman. He had a prodigious intellect, admirable personal qualities, and vast business experience which he brought to bear on the Access Family and for which we owe him a debt of gratitude.
“In line with the Company’s policy, the Board will soon announce the appointment of an Acting Group Chief Executive Officer even as we remain confident that the Access Group will build further on Dr. Wigwe’s legacy of growth and operational excellence.”
Earlier, the bank had said it did not have information on the death but was collaborating with authorities in the Unites States to know what happened.
“We have received numerous inquiries concerning an airplane crash in the USA. Presently, we lack specific information, however, we are actively collaborating with US authorities who will furnish updates.
“Your understanding and support are valued and we commit to keeping you informed promptly as we receive updates on the situation ”
