Wigwe's Father Refutes Inheritance Battle with Late Son's Children

Shyngle Sets Record Straight on Family Inheritance

“We, the family of Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, wish to address a recent article titled Family Dispute Erupts...”

Herbert Wigwe's family disputes his estate, with Pastor Shyngle Wigwe denying claims of seeking 20% inheritance, amidst allegations of family infighting and asset control struggles.

Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, the 90-year-old father of Herbert Wigwe, the late CEO of Access Holdings, has denied allegations that he's locked in a battle with his grandchildren and other family members over Herbert's assets. Reports had emerged claiming Pastor Wigwe was seeking 20% of his son's estate and had filed a caveat at the probate registry, as well as an affidavit from Christian Chukwuka Wigwe, allegedly a cousin of the deceased. This was supposedly done to prevent the execution of Herbert's will, which stipulates that his wealth should go solely to his children.

Pastor Wigwe has been reported to be in good health, contrary to rumors that he had taken ill after his son's funeral. The dispute surrounding Herbert's will and assets remains a contentious issue, with many awaiting clarification on the matter.

The family of Pastor Shyngle Wigwe has issued a statement, signed by Emeka Wigwe, refuting allegations that the senior Wigwe sought 20% of his late son Herbert's estate. Emeka, reportedly previously detained by Pastor Wigwe for disputing with his sister over Herbert's assets, clarified that Pastor Wigwe made no such request.

“We, the family of Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, wish to address a recent article titled Family Dispute Erupts Over Estate of Late Banking Executive Herbert Wigwe published on a new platform (not The Street Journal) on October 13, 2024,” the statement said.

“This article has unfortunately spread widely across social and national media. While we recognize the role of the press in sharing news, it is vital that such reports are based on truth and accuracy.

“To clarify, at no point has Pastor Shyngle Wigwe requested 20% of the estate of the late Herbert Wigwe. Neither has there been any such request by other family members.

“The article's claim that this demand contradicts Herbert's will is entirely false and misleading. The facts regarding the estate are already publicly available in the Probate Registry, where an affidavit clearly outlines the correct details. A simple search would have revealed this truth.

“During this painful time of grief, our family remains united, focusing on healing and growing stronger together. We have no intention of engaging in a public defense because there are no sides to take. The only truth is that we are navigating this immense loss and will continue to do so with dignity.

“Herbert Wigwe's legacy as a visionary banker and entrepreneur is what should be remembered. He transformed Access Bank into a national leader and devoted himself to empowering others through initiatives like The HOW Foundation, which focused on education and healthcare. These are the values that define his life and should be the focus, rather than unfounded speculation.

“We respectfully urge 'your' publication to correct the inaccuracies in the report and to exercise greater diligence in fact- checking future stories.”

Herbert Wigwe, along with his wife Chizoba, son Chizi, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo (former chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group), tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in the United States on February 9, 2024.

Highlights:

• Herbert Wigwe's Will: States that his wealth should be distributed among his children only.
• Pastor Shyngle Wigwe's Actions: Allegedly filed a caveat and affidavit to prevent will execution.
• Family Dispute: Involves grandchildren and other family members.