Chiemelie Ezeobi
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Tunji Disu, yesterday mourned the death of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, his wife, Chizoba and son, Chizi, as well as other passengers of the ill-fated chopper.
In a post on Facebook last night, CP Disu said the deceased had extended a warm hand of fellowship to him spanning years before when he was still the Commander, Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Lagos.
He wrote, “I am profoundly saddened to hear about the tragic passing of Herbert Wigwe. I had the privilege of knowing Herbert for many years, dating back to our time together when I was the commander of RRS during the annual Lagos Marathon, which was jointly sponsored by Access Bank.
“Herbert’s visit to the Rivers State Police Headquarters to inform me about the new university and to seek police cooperation demonstrated his passion and dedication to education and community development, he insisted I should visit the school.
“During my visit to the university, I was impressed by the meticulous planning and construction, which adhered to international standards.
“It was evident that Herbert’s vision for the university was to create a place of learning that would benefit not only the local community but also have a positive impact on the state and the nation as a whole.
“During our conversation, Herbert expressed his desire to modernise the current police station.
“He instructed his Chief Security Officer, Chucks, to coordinate with me regarding the construction plans. Some few days ago, Chucks visited my office to collect the police station plan, with instructions to complete the project before April.
“The news of Herbert’s untimely death in a helicopter crash has left me devastated, and my management team is still in shock. It is difficult to comprehend that the handsome and unassuming man who visited us just a few days ago is no longer with us.
” I cannot help but wonder if his dream for the university and the community has come to an abrupt end.
“Herbert Wigwe’s passing is an immense loss, not only for his family and friends but also for the entire nation. His dedication, vision, and commitment to everything he did will be deeply missed.
“The university he tirelessly worked to establish has the potential to transform the economy of the town, the state, and even the nation. It is our responsibility to ensure that his dream lives on and that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
“During this time of grief, I would like to express my utmost respect and heartfelt condolences to Herbert Wigwe’s family, friends, and colleagues. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory be a source of strength and inspiration for all of us.”
