Edith CHUKU
Aggrieved kinsmen of the FCT Minister, Chief Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, have charged the United States government to unravel the actual cause of the death of one of their illustrious sons, Mr. Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe, who died in a helicopter crash with his wife and son in California.
The kinsmen who were led by the President General of Ogbakor Ikwerre Cultural Organization Worldwide, Eze Godspower Onuekwa JP, gave this charge during a condolence visit to the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Isiokpo, in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, HRM King Blessing A N Wagor.
Onuekwa was accompanied by members of the National Executive Committee of Ogbakor Ikwerre chapter representatives, the President of Ikwerre People’s Association IPA, High Chief Monday Wehere, the President of Iwhuruohna Progressive Organization IPO Mr. Okachikwu Dibia, who was represented by Onyeche Igwe and other individuals of Ikwerre extraction.
Their demand was for the United States government to explain to the people of Ikwerre extraction the how and why Wigwe, who is the founder/owner of Wigwe University died with his wife and son in a plane crash.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Onuekwa who described the death of the group managing director/CEO of Access Bank Plc and his family as shocking, insisted that, “there must be an autopsy to verify the actual cause of his death. Ikwerre people will not sleep until the cause of his death is made known.”
While assuring the paramount ruler and the people of Isiokpo of the support of Ogbakor Ikwerre, the president general noted that “a day will be fixed for all Ikwerre sons and daughters to march the streets of Ikwerre land with black clothes, with all shops and offices closed. After that, Ikwerre people will visit the governor of Rivers State and ask him the next line of action before writing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
In his response to the visit to his palace, Wagor thanked members of Ogbakor Ikwerre for the condolence visit and assured that they will be involved in Wigwe’s burial plans.
According to report made available to TNN, the paramount ruler was said to have also permitted them to take any action that will benefit the entire Ikwerre kingdom as regards the death of the late businessman.
Wagor further prayed God to bless the delegation and grant them journey mercies back to their various destinations.
Meanwhile, a release signed by Wagor revealed that the Isiokpo Traditional Council has declared 8-day mourning period for the late Wigwe.
The mourning which was reported to commence on Wednesday, February 14, was said to be a sign of affection for the tragic loss of their son.
The release also noted that all business activities will be closed on the first day, with low-key operations afterward. All residents are encouraged to wear black hand bands in honor of the departed.
