Notwithstanding, we must acknowledge the fact that many Nigerians are doing excellent jobs in different fields of life both within and outside the country, and Herbert happens to be one of them. Thus, people of this sort need to be encouraged to do more, likewise anyone who aspires for anything good.
I have been trying to avoid writing anything about the demise of Hebert Wigwe, the CEO of Access Bank Nigeria Plc, who died on the 9th of February, 2024 in a ghastly helicopter crash that also claimed the lives of his dear wife, Doreen Chizoba, his beloved son, Chizi, his good friend, Baamofin Ogunbajo (the former Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc) and two crew members in the USA. I am, however, compelled to drop a line because we have something to learn from his life and death.
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I also want to avoid being philosophical, critical, or judgmental because that may not be necessary for now . However, before going further, my condolences go to the immediate family, colleagues, friends, well wishers, the people of goodwill, and the Nigerian family for the loss.
I have listened to some of the tributes with rapt attention and keen interest. From the testimonies of many who spoke, it can be deduced that Herbert was fearless, visionary, a big dreamer, hard working, humble, accountable, creative, supportive, and the list goes on. Interestingly, his ability to relate with people from different backgrounds and walks of life regardless of religion, region, nationality, gender age, and the like within his 57 years of age is highly commendable.
The reoccurring point in the tributes is the fact that Herbert supported many people to achieve their dreams and fulfil their aspirations regardless of their religion, ethnicity, and other affiliations. Hence, he can be liken to St. Paul, who was all things to all men ( 1Cor. 9:22).
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I think this is a big lesson to learn in the Nigerian political space where religion and ethnicity have held us captives and brought us backwards for years. And many are not ready to be freed from these chains and shackles of slavery. As a matter of fact, there is nothing wrong with religion or ethnicity if used and harnessed properly. For there are many religious and cultural values that are good and crucial for human development, social mobility, and nation building. The only problem, however, is the fact that religion and ethnicity are being manipulated, misused, or used negatively for ill purposes in Nigeria.
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I once asked a journalist from Rwanda how they were able to rebuild their country very fast from the ashes of a very brutal genocide of 1994. He told me that in Rwanda, they see themselves as Rwandans, and not as Tutsis or Hutus. And that Nigeria could be better and even compete with Europe because we are endowed with both human and natural resources in abundance. This is exactly not far from the truth; however, that can only be possible when there is good and visionary leadership, responsible citizenship, patriotism, accountability, working for the common good, and when we do not allow religion, ethnicity and other sentiments to kill our sense of reasoning.
Notwithstanding, we must acknowledge the fact that many Nigerians are doing excellent jobs in different fields of life both within and outside the country, and Herbert happens to be one of them. Thus, people of this sort need to be encouraged to do more, likewise anyone who aspires for anything good.
Finally, five days after the demise of President John F. Kennedy of the United States of America, his successor, Laden Johnson, while addressing a joint session of the Congress and urging them to sign the Civil Rights legislation to honor President Kennedy, states that, there is no oration or eulogy that could more eloquently honor President Kennedy’s memory than the earliest passage of the Civil Rights Bill for which Kennedy fought and died for. Consequently, the greatest eulogy or tribute we can give to Herbert Wigwe is not only to gather and speak kind words about him but to imbibe some of his principles or what he stood for, so that Nigeria can be a home where everyone can aspire for anything and actualize his/her dreams and God-given potentials regardless of religion, region, ethnicity and other affiliations.
May God grant eternal rest to Herbert and his five companions, and may God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
