- The former Emir spoke glowingly about Wigwe’s compassion and loyalty, saying he did not envisage a world where the consummate banker would die before him
Alhaji Lamido Sanusi II, a former Emir of Kano, has disclosed that he enjoyed a cordial and brotherly relationship with the late Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, Herbert Wigwe.
During a moving and teary tribute to the late banking mogul, the former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor disclosed that Wigwe provided him with the much needed shoulders to lean on during his turbulent days as Emir of the ancient city of Kano.
Addressing the crowd present on Wednesday for the night of tribute to Wigwe, Sanusi also revealed what the late 57-year-old stood by him throughout his kingly ordeal and eventual dethronement by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje in 2020.
The former Emir spoke glowingly about Wigwe’s compassion and loyalty, saying he did not envisage a world where the consummate banker would die before him.
“I was thinking I would die and leave Herbert. We have all heard about him, about his loyalty,” Sanusi said in an emotionally laden voice.
“When I had problems in Kano, I called him about 6 months before I was told to leave Kano. I said to him, ‘Herbert I know you’re doing all your best to solve all these problems, but I’m convinced that this is what is going to happen.
“He said to me, ‘Your Highness, don’t worry. Whatever happens, don’t worry. We are here for you.’ On the day I heard on the radio that I was dethroned, I called him and said I wanted to come to Lagos.
“The announcement was made about 9 am, by noon Herbert had a plane at the tarmac in Kano. The plan then was to take me into exile for many years. I put my family on that plane and sent them to Lagos, with no phone calls. Herbert received them and put them in a hotel.
“Later, he got them accommodation. For months, when I came, they stayed there. Your Highness, if you want to travel, just call Shola.”
Sanusi said the late Access Bank CEO and his partner Aig Imoukhuede, were crucial to his success during his five-year stint at the Central Bank of Nigeria.
He also narrated how the pair helped resolve a serious challenge in the banking sector at the time.