In February 2025, a legal dispute emerged within the family of the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in February 2024. The contention centers around the management and distribution of his estate.
Initial Allegations and Family Response
In October 2024, reports surfaced alleging that Dr. Wigwe's father, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, sought to claim 20% of his late son's estate, challenging the will's directives that allocated assets solely to Herbert's children. These claims were strongly refuted by the family. A statement issued on behalf of the family emphasized that at no point had Pastor Shyngle requested such a share of the estate. The family expressed concern over the spread of misinformation and underscored their unity during this period.
Legal Proceedings
The legal proceedings continued, and in February 2025, a Lagos State High Court Family/Probate Court in Ikeja dismissed an application filed by the late Herbert Wigwe’s cousin, Christian Chukwuka Wigwe, and Pastor Shyngle Wigwe. They had sought the appointment of interim administrators for Herbert's estate, including his eldest daughter, Otutochi Channel Wigwe. The court found no evidence of wrongdoing by the current estate managers and upheld the existing management structure.
Family's Stance on Unity
Throughout these events, the Wigwe family has consistently emphasized their unity and commitment to honoring Dr. Herbert Wigwe's legacy. In statements to the press, they have refuted claims of internal conflict and reiterated their focus on healing and supporting one another. The family has also highlighted the importance of accurate reporting, expressing concern over the dissemination of false information that could further strain their grieving process.
Conclusion
The dispute over the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe's estate underscores the complexities that can arise in the management of significant assets after the passing of a prominent individual. While legal challenges have been presented, the family's public statements reflect a desire to maintain unity and uphold the intentions outlined in Dr. Wigwe's will. As the situation develops, it serves as a reminder of the importance of clear estate planning and the potential challenges beneficiaries may face in its execution.
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