“I’m hoping to reunite with Herbert on my last day” – Shyngle Wigwe

Shyngle Wigwe, father of Herbert Wigwe, has described the loss of his son as a profound test of faith.

In an interview with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Shyngle — a former Director-General of the station — reflected on the painful loss of Herbert and his older brother, both of whom died in tragic accidents. He said the repeated tragedy had strengthened his belief that life unfolds according to God’s plan, and that his greatest hope is to be reunited with his sons in the afterlife.

“Herbert has gone before me… I’m hoping to reunite with him on my last day,” he said, holding back emotion. He emphasized that he loved all his children equally and that raising them was a responsibility he carried with pride.

Herbert Wigwe, co-founder of Access Holdings and former Managing Director of Access Bank, died tragically in a helicopter crash near the California–Nevada border on 9 February 2024, after a flight from Palm Springs to Boulder City, Nevada. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) determined that the crash was caused by the pilot’s decision to continue flying under visual flight rules into poor weather, resulting in spatial disorientation and loss of control.

Years earlier, the family was dealt a devastating blow when Herbert’s older brother also died in a fatal accident, an event Shyngle said changed the family’s life forever. Losing a second son in similar tragic circumstances, he noted, reopened old wounds and tested his spiritual resolve.

Since Herbert’s death, his will and estate have attracted public attention. In February 2025, the Lagos State High Court Family/Probate Court in Ikeja dismissed an application by Shyngle Wigwe and a cousin seeking to be appointed interim administrators of Herbert’s estate.

See Also

The Macallan’s partnership with NECLive 2025 spotlights creativity and craftsmanship in Africa’s entertainment industry

The legal battle has since moved to the Court of Appeal following the filing of a notice of appeal on 13 February 2025. Reports indicate that Herbert’s will, prepared outside Nigeria, covers his personal and real property globally and has been submitted to probate in Nigeria.

Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, Shyngle stressed that he cherishes the bond he shared with Herbert. He described the loss as a spiritual trial and relied on his faith to endure the grief, expressing hope of reuniting with his son one day.