Family, friends, and associates gathered in a solemn, yet celebratory, atmosphere to pay tribute to the life and legacy of the late Chizoba Wigwe, and her son, Chizi.
Chizoba, wife of the late Access Bank Chief Executive Officer, Herbert Wigwe, was a woman, whose impact resonated deeply with those who knew her.
The memorial service, held to honour Chizoba’s memory, was a poignant reflection of the love and admiration she garnered from various spheres of her life.
Similarly, friends and family had earlier gathered to also honour Chizi, at a separate memorial service, creating a collective space for remembrance and reflection on the lives of the two cherished individuals. They died on February 9, alongside the Access Bank CEO, in a helicopter crash in the United States.
Chizoba’s sister-in-law and Herbert’s youngest sister, Stella Eresia-Eke, opened the tributes, describing her close bond with the departed.
She shared, “Chizoba was my friend, my sister. My parents were blessed with three beautiful daughters, my sister, Dr. Joyce, Peggy, Dupe, and I had a wonderful sister in Chizoba.
Chizoba was my sister-in-law, but what happened along the way, the in-law fell off. Chizoba was my sister in love.”
Eresia-Eke emphasised Chizoba’s versatility, stating, “The good thing about Chizoba we can identify with is that she could roll up her sleeves and find herself anywhere.
“She could adapt to anything that came her way. In her elegance, she was fantastic, and in her elegance, Chizoba was meek.”
She continued, “To say my heart is shattered is really having to put it mildly. My heart is broken, my parents’ hearts are broken, my siblings’ hearts are all broken.
“But I’m going to rest and hold on to the fact that what she showed was love, and I’m hopeful that with everyone here, I know a piece of Chizoba is left with all of us.”
Mrs. Ofovwe Aig-Imoukhuede, a close friend of Chizoba, equally shared touching memories of their friendship.
“I found in Chizoba a warm and dependable friend and sister who could be counted on for everything,” she said.
Reflecting on Chizoba’s enterprising spirit, Aig-Imoukhuede added, “Her enterprising nature came in so handy when we were both stuck in the UK during Covid.
“She would regularly do drive-bys to my house, her car loaded with food and toilet papers when the shelves of the shops were bare.”
Aig-Imoukhuede also highlighted Chizoba’s role as a devoted mother, stating, “She was a very loving and present mother, who was so proud of her children and spent so much time with them.”
Another close friend, Kemi Balogun, emotionally shared her memories, saying, “We do not mourn like those who do not have hope.
Chizoba was kind, very kind. If Chizoba loved somebody, the love she had for Herbert went to Aigboje’s home and then to our home.
“I thank God for Chizoba, I miss her laughter.
Chizoba loved Herbert so much and Herbert loved Chizoba, too. We love Chizoba but we know God loves her best. We thank God for her life.”
Ambassador Ogan contributed to the tribute, acknowledging the deep love between Chizoba and her husband, Herbert, as well as her significant financial support to the Wigwe University.
Charles Nwuba, Chizoba’s brother, in his tributes, expressed gratitude for the love and support shown during this difficult time.
The memorial service served as a testament to the remarkable life of Chizoba Wigwe, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to share in her journey.
During the event, heartfelt performances were delivered by the Lighthill Choir, a solo performance by Progress, and Chee.
The congregation was also moved by a sermon from Pastor Ifeanyi Emmanuel, further adding spiritual reflection to the commemoration of Chizoba’s life.
Nume Ekeghe and Wale Igbintade
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