Preparations are in full swing for the burial of the late former Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, Dr. Herbert Wigwe, in his hometown, Omueke, Isiokpo, Ikwere Local Government Area of Rivers State. The burial is scheduled to take place today, Saturday.
Accompanied by a substantial motorcade, Wigwe’s remains departed from the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa in Ikwerre LGA, on Friday, around 1:33 pm, en route to his father’s compound in Omueke, Isiokpo.
Wigwe’s kinsmen, adamant about honoring their son’s wish, insisted on his burial in his hometown, Omueke, and vowed to employ ancient traditions to determine the cause of his death.
As anticipation mounts, community members, many dressed in black attire, eagerly await Wigwe’s body. Married women from Isiokpo gathered at the entrance of the community, offering prayers to avert untimely deaths and mourned the loss of prominent members.
Expressing their grief, one of the women said, “We are not happy at all. Our son, Herbert, was taking care of us, widows and children in this area.”
Upon arrival in Isiokpo on Friday morning, Wigwe’s body was received by the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, and community elders, who described Wigwe’s demise as a significant loss. Nwanosike noted Wigwe’s expansive vision for his people and the Ikwerre ethnic nationality.
Preparations for the burial have attracted dignitaries from across the country, with about 30 private jets expected to ferry governors, ministers, politicians, industrialists, and traditional rulers to pay their respects.
Security arrangements have been beefed up by the Rivers State Police Command to ensure a peaceful ceremony. According to the command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, various units, including Mobile policemen and undercover personnel, will be deployed due to the anticipated large gathering of mourners.
As the community braces itself for the solemn occasion, a wake is scheduled to be held at Wigwe University, founded by the late financial mogul and philanthropist, situated adjacent to his residence in Omueke. The university, nearing completion, stands as a testament to Wigwe’s commitment to education and community development.
