The family of the late Herbert Wigwe, who tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in the United States alongside his wife, son, and one other individual, has raised allegations against his business partner, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, accusing him of undue interference in family matters.
In a sworn affidavit filed at the Lagos State High Court, Christian Chukwuka Wigwe, a cousin of the deceased, stated that Aig-Imoukhuede made decisions regarding the care of the children left behind by Herbert Wigwe without consulting the family. Additionally, Aig-Imoukhuede allegedly took actions concerning the late banker’s business assets without the family’s input.
Aig-Imoukhuede, the former Group Managing Director and CEO of Access Bank Plc, is also the founder and chairman of Coronation Group Limited, including its affiliates Coronation Asset Management Ltd and Trium Ltd.
The affidavit, dated October 7, 2024, reveals that Aig-Imoukhuede has assumed a quasi-guardianship role over the late Herbert Wigwe’s minor children, a responsibility that should naturally fall to Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, the head of the Wigwe family. According to Christian Chukwuka, this indirect control over the children and the deceased’s assets has made it difficult for Pastor Shyngle to perform his duties as the rightful guardian.
The affidavit states: “Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede has subtly positioned himself in such a way that it undermines Pastor Shyngle Wigwe’s role as guardian of the minor children, withholding crucial information regarding the management of the deceased’s estate from the family. This situation has created a significant rift, as Pastor Shyngle Wigwe’s authority and natural role as guardian are being compromised.”
The document further alleges that Aig-Imoukhuede’s control over Herbert Wigwe’s assets gives him undue influence over decisions affecting the children, despite not being their legal guardian. This influence has extended beyond financial matters, creating tensions within the family and eroding Pastor Shyngle Wigwe’s ability to oversee the welfare of his grandchildren.
Pastor Shyngle has expressed concerns that if this situation continues, his legal and natural authority over the children will be further diminished, leading to more conflict within the family.
The case remains under judicial consideration as the Wigwe family seeks to restore proper guardianship and control over the late banker’s estate.
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