Editorial
Immortalising Herbert Wigwe
Tears and emotions are running high as the countdown to the burial of the Wigwes draws nearer. Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe, his wife, Chizoba, and their eldest son, Chizi, tragically lost their lives in a helicopter crash in the United States of America. Among the victims was the former Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc, Abimbola Ogunbanjo. The families of the deceased have released a week-long burial programme for the late Wigwes, starting on March 4, and culminating in the burial on March 9.
Herbert Wigwe was born on August 15, 1966, in Ibadan and died at 58. He hailed from Isiokpo, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State. His father was the head of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), and his mother was a nurse. Herbert earned a bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 1987. He then pursued a Master’s degree in Banking and International Finance from the University College of North Wales, followed by a Master’s degree in Financial Economics from the University of London.
He began his career at Coopers & Lybrand Associates, where he developed chartered accountancy skills. He then worked at Guaranty Trust Bank Plc for over a decade, taking on various leadership roles. In 2002, he led the transformation of Access Bank Plc as its Deputy Managing Director. He became Group Managing Director/CEO in 2014, leading Access Bank to become one of Nigeria’s top five banking institutions. He also served as the Chairman of Access Bank Ghana Limited, Access Investment & Securities Limited, Central Securities and Clearing System (CSCS), and was the Chairman of Access Bank (UK) Limited until his passing.
In 2016, in recognition of his exemplary role in society and contributions to youth development, the Boys’ Brigade (BB) appointed Herbert as Patron for Lagos State Council. He was also named Banker of The Year in the same year by both The Sun and Vanguard newspapers.
Herbert Wigwe’s personal life was defined by his unwavering commitment to family, faith, and a wide range of interests. He was happily married to Chizoba Doreen Wigwe (nee Nwuba), a successful lawyer and entrepreneur. The couple was blessed with four children: Chizi, Tochi, Hannah, and David. Herbert’s devotion to his family was apparent in the precious moments he shared with them, cherishing every opportunity to be together.
A man of strong faith, he was known for his devout Christianity and active participation in the activities of Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). As a pastor and mentor within his faith community, he impacted the lives of many with his wisdom and guidance. Herbert’s dedication to his beliefs was evident in the way he lived his life, always striving to be a positive example to those around him. He had unwavering commitment to his faith, and his influence within the church was profound.
His humanitarian efforts have had a significant impact through the non-profit organisation he established in 2016 — The HOW Foundation. As a result of his successful and selfless service to millions of underprivileged individuals in society, he was honoured with the Nigerian national award of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) by former President Muhammadu Buhari in October 2022.
The pride of Ikwerreland, and indeed, Rivers State, lies in the upcoming world-class Wigwe University located at Isiokpo, the headquarters of Ikwerre Local Government Area. Herbert had invested half a billion dollars in the institution, focusing on management, science and engineering, Information Technology (IT) and creative arts. The institution is due for commissioning in September 2024, bringing a new era of higher education to the region.
The passing of Dr Herbert Wigwe has left a deep void in the hearts of many, with tributes pouring in from all over the world. President Bola Tinubu expressed his shock and sorrow at the “overwhelming tragedy of Dr Wigwe’s death”. Governors also paid their respects, highlighting his industry, spirit of excellence, and status as a business icon of repute.
During the Night of Tributes in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, acknowledged Herbert’s impactful life and positive influence on society. Fubara expressed his administration’s determination to immortalise him as a worthy son of the state. He described his passing as a double loss, both as an in-law and as a trailblasing individual who embodied the resilience and ambition of Rivers people.
The Senate paid tributes to the late Herbert Wigwe, expressing sorrow over his passing and acknowledging the immense loss to Nigeria, Africa, and the world. A former governor and classmate of Wigwe at Federal Government College in Sokoto, Senator Aminu Tambuwal, shared his memories of his generosity in providing 10 Hajj seats to his people even though he was a Christian. Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the late finance expert as a true pan-Africanist who successfully expanded Access Bank’s global reach.
The outpouring of grief and messages within the country and across the world testify to Herbert’s extraordinary qualities and outstanding contributions. He was an exceptional person who never let his remarkable achievements diminish his compassion for others. While some people lose touch with their roots after reaching the pinnacle of success, he remained connected to people from all walks of life. He maintained relationships with his high-profile acquaintances, as well as with his secondary school classmates, church members, village chiefs, community leaders, and former colleagues.
From one end of the spectrum to the other, Herbert consistently embodied his witty, kind, humorous, and amiable self. He had a deep passion for youths and initiated numerous mentorship programmes for them. His philanthropic efforts through his foundation are widely recognised. The establishment of a university for what he called the ‘fearless’ generation will always be a lasting legacy. We are thrilled that the individuals he brought together to bring the university to life have pledged to continue his dream.
Undeniably, the late Herbert Wigwe deeply connects with our shared social awareness. Therefore, in line with Governor Fubara’s stance, we strongly believe that the esteemed banker should be commemorated for his remarkable and exceptional character. This will serve to educate present and future generations on the values of hard work, innovation, and perseverance. By immortalising him, we can inspire people to strive for greatness and contribute to the creation of a society that is as commendable as those we choose to celebrate.
May God grant their souls: Dr Herbert Wigwe, his lovely wife, Chizoba Doreen, and son, Chizi, eternal rest!
Editorial
Whither Tinubu’s Duty-Free Food?
The delay in implementing President Bola Tinubu’s directive for zero customs duty and value added tax on food imports is unacceptable and highlights a concerning lack of urgency within the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Nigerian Customs Service. Over two months after the announcement, the policy remains stalled, despite the President’s clear intention for immediate enforcement. This prolonged delay, especially given the policy’s temporary nature (July – December), is inexplicable and detrimental to a hoi polloi already grappling with a severe economic crisis.
While the Comptroller-General of Customs attributes the delay to the Ministry of Finance finalising details, this explanation is insufficient. The dire need for food relief demands swift action, especially in the face of soaring fuel prices, rampant inflation, and skyrocketing food costs. The President’s promise of subsidised rice at N40,000 per 50kg bag remains elusive as well, pushing many Nigerians further into hardship. Accusations of deliberate slowdowns motivated by the government’s revenue goals are alarming and warrant serious investigation.
A circular from the Presidency has clarified the approved food items eligible for duty exemption, specifically maize, millet, rice, wheat, husked brown rice, grain sorghum, and beans. This strategic move aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers and enhance food security. Previously subjected to import duties between five and 30 per cent, these commodities will now be more accessible, potentially stabilising prices in the local market.
It seems the execution of the policy is encountering obstacles due to bureaucratic processes. If the government fails to address this crisis with comprehensive and effective measures, the consequences could be catastrophic. The simmering discontent amongst Nigerians could easily boil over into widespread protests and social unrest, further destabilising an already fragile nation. Ignoring the cries of its citizens and the looming threat of social upheaval would be a grave mistake with potentially devastating ramifications.
Public officials insulated by privilege and detached from the everyday struggles of the people, have fostered a dangerous disconnect. For too long, they have failed to truly understand the harsh realities faced by the majority of Nigerians, the daily grind of poverty, the constant battle for survival, and the crushing weight of economic hardship. However, the current multifaceted crisis, with its clear manifestation of suffering, should serve as a jarring wake-up call, even to the most arrogant and out-of-touch.
The government’s ill-conceived and draconian policies, implemented without adequate consideration for the people, have created an intolerable situation that can no longer be swept under the rug or dismissed with platitudes. The widespread suffering is a stark indictment of their negligence, demanding a fundamental shift in perspective and a renewed commitment to the welfare of the Nigerian people.
The recent #EndBadGovernance protests serve as an obvious reminder that disregarding the plight of the people is a dangerous gamble. When basic needs like food and security are unmet, and the cries for change are silenced, the simmering discontent inevitably boils over. Escalating hunger and desperation create a fertile ground for unrest, a truth tragically illustrated by the protests. If the government continues to turn a blind eye to the suffering of its citizens, more widespread and possibly violent demonstrations are not only likely, but inevitable.
Furthermore, attempting to quell dissent through intimidation and persecution of protesters is a recipe for disaster, as it only serves to further inflame tensions and breed resentment. The path to stability lies not in suppression, but in genuine engagement with the concerns of the people and a commitment to addressing the root causes of their suffering.
The Federal Ministry of Finance, led by Olawale Edun, has a crucial role to play in improving the image of this government. Minister Edun and Customs Comptroller-General, Wale Adeniyi, must prioritise the fight against hunger by expediting the zero duty policy. This policy will allow the importation of food at a reduced cost and ease the burden on struggling families.
Officials must accord precedence to the well-being of citizens over bureaucratic processes. The current economic hardship is undeniable, and the callous indifference displayed by those in power, who seem shielded from the harsh realities ordinary Nigerians face, is deeply troubling. The government must act decisively to expedite this critical policy and provide the much-needed relief to a population struggling with hunger, poverty, and misery. Continued delay is a betrayal of Tinubu’s promise and a grim reminder of the disconnect between those in power and the suffering Nigerians.
Editorial
Whither Tinubu’s Duty-Free Food?
The delay in implementing President Bola Tinubu’s directive for zero customs duty and value added tax on food imports is unacceptable and highlights a concerning lack of urgency within the Federal Ministry of Finance and the Nigerian Customs Service. Over two months after the announcement, the policy remains stalled, despite the President’s clear intention for immediate enforcement. This prolonged delay, especially given the policy’s temporary nature (July – December), is inexplicable and detrimental to a hoi polloi already grappling with a severe economic crisis.
While the Comptroller-General of Customs attributes the delay to the Ministry of Finance finalising details, this explanation is insufficient. The dire need for food relief demands swift action, especially in the face of soaring fuel prices, rampant inflation, and skyrocketing food costs. The President’s promise of subsidised rice at N40,000 per 50kg bag remains elusive as well, pushing many Nigerians further into hardship. Accusations of deliberate slowdowns motivated by the government’s revenue goals are alarming and warrant serious investigation.
A circular from the Presidency has clarified the approved food items eligible for duty exemption, specifically maize, millet, rice, wheat, husked brown rice, grain sorghum, and beans. This strategic move aims to alleviate the financial burden on consumers and enhance food security. Previously subjected to import duties between five and 30 per cent, these commodities will now be more accessible, potentially stabilising prices in the local market.
It seems the execution of the policy is encountering obstacles due to bureaucratic processes. If the government fails to address this crisis with comprehensive and effective measures, the consequences could be catastrophic. The simmering discontent amongst Nigerians could easily boil over into widespread protests and social unrest, further destabilising an already fragile nation. Ignoring the cries of its citizens and the looming threat of social upheaval would be a grave mistake with potentially devastating ramifications.
Public officials insulated by privilege and detached from the everyday struggles of the people, have fostered a dangerous disconnect. For too long, they have failed to truly understand the harsh realities faced by the majority of Nigerians, the daily grind of poverty, the constant battle for survival, and the crushing weight of economic hardship. However, the current multifaceted crisis, with its clear manifestation of suffering, should serve as a jarring wake-up call, even to the most arrogant and out-of-touch.
The government’s ill-conceived and draconian policies, implemented without adequate consideration for the people, have created an intolerable situation that can no longer be swept under the rug or dismissed with platitudes. The widespread suffering is a stark indictment of their negligence, demanding a fundamental shift in perspective and a renewed commitment to the welfare of the Nigerian people.
The recent #EndBadGovernance protests serve as an obvious reminder that disregarding the plight of the people is a dangerous gamble. When basic needs like food and security are unmet, and the cries for change are silenced, the simmering discontent inevitably boils over. Escalating hunger and desperation create a fertile ground for unrest, a truth tragically illustrated by the protests. If the government continues to turn a blind eye to the suffering of its citizens, more widespread and possibly violent demonstrations are not only likely, but inevitable.
Furthermore, attempting to quell dissent through intimidation and persecution of protesters is a recipe for disaster, as it only serves to further inflame tensions and breed resentment. The path to stability lies not in suppression, but in genuine engagement with the concerns of the people and a commitment to addressing the root causes of their suffering.
The Federal Ministry of Finance, led by Olawale Edun, has a crucial role to play in improving the image of this government. Minister Edun and Customs Comptroller-General, Wale Adeniyi, must prioritise the fight against hunger by expediting the zero duty policy. This policy will allow the importation of food at a reduced cost and ease the burden on struggling families.
Officials must accord precedence to the well-being of citizens over bureaucratic processes. The current economic hardship is undeniable, and the callous indifference displayed by those in power, who seem shielded from the harsh realities ordinary Nigerians face, is deeply troubling. The government must act decisively to expedite this critical policy and provide the much-needed relief to a population struggling with hunger, poverty, and misery. Continued delay is a betrayal of Tinubu’s promise and a grim reminder of the disconnect between those in power and the suffering Nigerians.
Editorial
For Credible Rivers LG Polls
All looks set for the conduct of the Rivers State local government election scheduled to take place tomorrow in the 23 local government areas of the state. A total of 18 political parties will vie for various council positions in the polls to be conducted on Saturday. The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) had initially listed 19 political parties for the election, but the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) discontinued the contest. Chief Emeka Beke’s faction of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said that it will participate in the ballot.
Ahead of tomorrow’s council election, various lawsuits have resulted in conflicting rulings about how the election should be conducted. A recent judgment by a Federal High Court in Abuja has prohibited the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from providing the voters register to RSIEC and instructed the police to withdraw security for the ballot. Similarly, the court has barred RSIEC from getting the voters register from INEC. However, in a counter ruling, a High Court in Port Harcourt has mandated that the state electoral commission continues with the election, requiring INEC to hand over the voters register and ordering police protection for the event.
As voters in the state prepare to head to the polls tomorrow, the conflicting rulings and legal battles have cast a shadow of uncertainty over the election process. With INEC and RSIEC at odds over claims regarding the issuance of the voters register by the former and security arrangements for the ballot, there is a need for clarity and resolution to ensure a free and fair election. The conflicting court rulings have added further complications to an already challenging situation, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process. As all stakeholders navigate these legal challenges, the focus remains on upholding the democratic principles and ensuring that voters are able to cast their ballots without interference.
Intense preparations have characterised Saturday’s polls. The election is expected to be conducted in line with the provisions of the Rivers State electoral laws. Speaking at a meeting with stakeholders, the RSIEC chairman, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (Rtd), hinted that the commission had complied with relevant sections of the law in all its preparations for the task. He implored political parties and politicians to ignore acts that could jeopardise the electoral process.
While we wholeheartedly endorse the move to ensure that democratic practice, norms and values always prevail at the local government level, we are truly elated by the level of earnestness and commitment exhibited so far by the Justice Enebeli-led commission to conduct credible, free and fair election in the 23 local government councils. Indeed, RSIEC can execute credible elections if it resists pressures from different quarters.
Despite the Federal High Court order, the state electoral commission’s parley with security agencies, especially with the police, and other stakeholders is, to say the least, heart-warming and reassuring. We expect this cooperation and partnership to continue even after the election. Going by Enebeli’s antecedents, we strongly believe that the commission will not fail to provide a level playing ground for political parties and politicians to test their popularity in a free, fair and tension-free contest.
The state electoral body must, therefore, strive to adopt an open-door policy where complaints would be entertained on their merit during and after the election. As anticipated, we hope the commission embarked on massive voter education and training of electoral and ad hoc staff that would man the 23 local government areas. It is advised that adequate preparations should be made for the security of sensitive and non-sensitive electoral materials, particularly given the tensed atmosphere in the state.
RSIEC is reminded that the success or otherwise of any election depends largely on the authenticity of the updated voter’s register which the commission has reportedly obtained ahead of the election from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The news that as many as 18 political parties in the state will participate in the council polls is cheering. The parties are urged to support and cooperate with the commission in ensuring a smooth and credible election.
It is expedient that Governor Siminalayi Fubara releases all the funds appropriated for the conduct of the local government election to the commission and ensure that he does not interfere in the workings of the RSIEC, or even influence the outcome one way or the other. Members of the commission should work harder to uphold the law without fear or favour; let or hindrance.
Incidents of missing ballot or result sheets, late arrival of materials and other logistics will only serve to discourage the electorate who already entertain a deep mistrust for the electoral process in the country. The lack of confidence in the system is largely responsible for the attitude of most Nigerians refraining from playing an active role of either voting for candidates of their choice or vying for political office. RSIEC must guard against those lapses.
Politicians, on their part, must understand that irrespective of their party affiliations, the common goal is the provision of good governance for the people. An election should never be a ‘‘do or die affair’’ and no aspirant is worth spilling blood for. Political positions are a call to service, not personal enterprises motivated by profits or bloody sports for which violent and fatal competitions are means. Experience has shown that arms provided for political thugs during elections, end up being tools for robberies and kidnappings after the election.
The idea of security agents acting the script of political actors should no longer amount to something in our polity. The nation currently faces perhaps its worst security challenges, and the police as well as other security agencies need the trust of Rivers people to enable them to carry out their duties effectively throughout the polls.
Law enforcement agents must protect both voters and election materials because it is their constitutional role to do so. The recent #Endbadgovernance protest, along with the violence that ensued, is a manifestation of the dissatisfaction of Nigerians with police operations. These security agencies must learn to commit themselves to their constitutional obligation and oath in the sustenance of democracy, rather than to any government official.
We must realise that ultimate power rests with the people, and the best way to exercise this power is through the electoral process. Hence, Rivers people must own the electoral operation, first by acquiring their permanent voters’ card, turn out en masse tomorrow to vote for candidates of their choice, and guarantee that their votes count. They have to elect responsible and responsive persons whose utmost interest will be the security and welfare of the people.