Tragedy Strikes: Nigerian Bank CEO and Others Killed in Helicopter Crash
A devastating helicopter crash in California’s Mojave Desert has claimed the lives of six individuals, including Herbert Wigwe, the CEO of a major Nigerian bank. The crash occurred on Friday night near Nipton, California, not far from the California-Nevada border.
Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe speaks onstage at Global Citizen Live, Lagos on Sept. 18, 2021, in Lagos, Nigeria. (Andrew Esiebo/Getty Images for Global Citizen/File)
A Tragic Loss
The Nigerian officials, including World Trade Organization Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, confirmed the death of Herbert Wigwe, who led Access Bank Group. Alongside Wigwe, Abimbola Ogunbanjo, a former Group Chairman of Nigerian Exchange Group, also lost their lives. Shockingly, Wigwe’s wife and son were among the deceased as well, according to Nigerian politician Godwin Obaseki.
The Crash and Investigation
The ill-fated helicopter took off from Palm Springs Airport around 8:45 p.m. with its destination set for Boulder City, Nevada, near Las Vegas. Tragically, the crash occurred amidst rainy and snowy weather conditions in the area.
Multiple American agencies, including the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are actively investigating the crash. The NTSB will lead the investigation and provide updates as they become available.
Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe attends Global Citizen Live, Lagos on Sept. 18, 2021, in Lagos, Nigeria. (Andrew Esiebo/Getty Images for Global Citizen/File)
A Nation Mourns
Nigerian Governor Godwin Obaseki expressed his shock and devastation over the tragic loss of Herbert Wigwe. He described Wigwe as a titan in Nigeria’s financial sector, responsible for elevating Access Bank to an international brand that put Nigeria on the global map of first-class financial services. Obaseki extended his condolences to the Wigwe family, the Ogunbanjo family, Access Bank Holding, the Nigeria Stock Exchange, friends, and associates affected by this irreparable loss.
Dusk settles in over the Mojave Desert, about 10 miles north of Nipton, Calif. (Gina Ferazzi /Los Angeles Times via Getty Images/File)
Avoidable Tragedy
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety precautions during air travel. While investigations are underway to determine the exact cause of the crash, it is crucial for aviation authorities to continuously evaluate weather conditions and exercise caution when permitting flights in adverse weather.
Final Thoughts
The loss of Herbert Wigwe and the other victims of this helicopter crash is a profound tragedy that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria and beyond. The impact of Wigwe’s leadership in the financial sector will be remembered, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations. As loved ones mourn their untimely departure, the world must come together to support those affected by this devastating incident.
Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and friends of Herbert Wigwe, Abimbola Ogunbanjo, and all the victims of this tragic accident. May they find solace and strength during this difficult time.
