Evil grandpa! Late Herbert Wigwe’s father drags granddaughter to court over assets

A year after the tragic passing of Nigerian billionaire and former CEO of Access Bank, Mr. Herbert Wigwe, in a helicopter accident alongside his wife and eldest son, a legal dispute has erupted over his multi-billion-naira estate and other assets.

The late banker’s 90-year-old father, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, a former Director-General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), has initiated a court battle against his granddaughter, Tochi Wigwe, Herbert’s 26-year-old daughter, over the control and distribution of his late son’s assets.

The dispute involves Herbert Wigwe’s vast estate, including his multi-billion-naira private residence in Ikoyi, Lagos, shares in Access Holdings Plc, and other investments tied to his extensive business ventures, including the prestigious Wigwe University.

Reports estimate Herbert Wigwe’s net worth at approximately 65 billion Naira at the time of his death.

Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, alongside Chukwuka Wigwe, who claims to be a cousin, approached the court seeking the distribution of Herbert Wigwe’s assets, aiming to take control of the estate’s management.

However, on February 6, 2025, the court dismissed their application, ruling that the claimants were “not entitled to seek the reliefs” they requested.

The ruling effectively protected Tochi Wigwe and her siblings’ interests, ensuring they retain control over their father’s estate for the time being.

Despite the court’s decision, Pastor Shyngle Wigwe has refused to back down and has taken the case to the Court of Appeal, prolonging the legal battle.

The appeal means no definitive winner has been declared, and the case remains ongoing.

The luxury Ikoyi residence, a significant part of the estate, is estimated to be worth between ₦5 billion and ₦10 billion ($3 million to $6 million), reflecting Herbert Wigwe’s status as one of Nigeria’s most prominent billionaires.

Other assets, including his stakes in Access Holdings and investments in Wigwe University, further underscore the high stakes of the legal dispute.

The case has drawn significant public interest, with many questioning the motives behind the legal challenge, especially given the emotional toll on the Wigwe family following the tragic loss of Herbert, his wife, and their eldest son.

The court’s initial ruling in favor of Tochi Wigwe and her siblings has been seen as a temporary victory for the late banker’s immediate family.

However, with the appeal in progress, the final outcome remains uncertain.

The Wigwes’ demise

Herbert Wigwe, the former CEO of Access Bank, tragically died in a helicopter crash on February 9, 2024, in California, near the Nevada border.

He was just 57 years old. Wigwe’s wife, Doreen Chizoba, and their 29-year-old son, Chizi, also lost their lives in the accident.

Late Herbert Wigwe, wife and son’s caskets during the funeral service in Rivers State, Nigeria

The funeral service for Wigwe and his family was held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God in Isiokpo, Rivers State.

The ceremony was attended by several prominent figures.

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