- Pastor Wigwe denied the allegations
Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, father of the late CEO of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, has refuted claims that he is involved in a dispute over his late son’s estate.
Recent online reports had suggested that Wigwe’s parents had filed a legal challenge at the Probate Registry, disputing the terms of Herbert’s will and seeking 20 per cent of his estate.
According to the report, Pastor Wigwe, along with Christian Chukwuka Wigwe, who claims to be Herbert’s cousin, allegedly filed a caveat seeking to alter the terms of the will. Herbert’s will, reportedly lodged at the Ikeja Probate Court, stipulated that his wealth be distributed exclusively among his children.
In a statement issued on behalf of the family by Emeka Wigwe on Tuesday, Pastor Wigwe denied the allegations, calling the report false and misleading. The statement clarified that neither he nor any other family members had requested 20 per cent of Herbert’s estate, as the report suggested.
“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 October 13, 2024. This article has unfortunately spread widely across social and national media,” the statement read.
The family emphasized that the facts concerning the estate are available at the Probate Registry and urged the media to fact-check stories before publication.
Pastor Wigwe also appealed to the platform that published the initial report to correct the inaccuracies. He expressed disappointment that such claims were made during a difficult time for the family, who are focusing on healing.
The family also highlighted Herbert Wigwe’s legacy, noting his impact as a visionary leader at Access Bank and his dedication to social causes, including education and healthcare through The HOW Foundation.
“Herbert Wigwe’s legacy as a banker and entrepreneur is what should be remembered,” the family said, urging the public to focus on his contributions rather than the unfounded reports circulating in the media.