Nigerian Bank CEO Among Six Victims in Fatal Mojave Desert Helicopter Crash

Nigerian Banking Sector Mourns the Loss of Herbert Wigwe

Nigerian banking and political circles were in mourning as Herbert Wigwe, CEO of a major Nigerian bank, was tragically killed in a helicopter crash in California's Mojave Desert. The crash, which also claimed the lives of five others, including Wigwe's wife and son, occurred near Nipton, California, not far from the California-Nevada border. The helicopter had departed from Palm Springs Airport en route to Boulder City, Nevada, near Las Vegas, before crashing around 10 p.m. local time on Friday.

Investigation and Reactions

The crash, which occurred amid rainy and snowy weather, is under investigation by multiple American agencies, including the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, the NTSB, and the FAA. Nigerian officials, including World Trade Organization Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Nigerian politician Godwin Obaseki, expressed shock and devastation at the loss of Wigwe and the other victims.

Statements and Condolences

Expressing his grief, Governor Godwin Obaseki described the incident as "painful and heart-wrenching" and extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and their associates. Obaseki highlighted Wigwe's significant contributions to Nigeria's financial sector, lauding his role in establishing Access Bank as an international brand.

Ongoing Inquiries

Fox News Digital reached out to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department and Access Bank Group for comments, but has not received any responses at the time of reporting.

The tragic incident has cast a pall over the Nigerian financial and political landscape, with the nation mourning the loss of a prominent figure in the banking industry. As the investigation into the crash continues, the Nigerian community and the global financial sector, particularly Access Bank, are left to grapple with the irreparable loss of Herbert Wigwe and the other victims.