A coalition, the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has called for the immediate investigation of the helicopter crash in the Mojave Desert near the California-Nevada border on Friday night that claimed the life of the Access Bank CEO, Herbert Wigwe.
The crash also claimed the lives of Wigwe’s wife, son, former Group Chairman of the Nigeria Stock Exchange, Abimbola Ogunbanjo, and two other pilots.
NCSCN in a statement issued by its Executive Director, Comrade Blessing Akinlosotu in Abuja on Monday, said the the crash was suspicious and demanded for urgent and in-depth investigation.
“The tragic helicopter crash that took the life of Herbert Wigwe, Chief Executive of Access Bank, in California’s Mojave Desert is a devastating incident that requires a thorough investigation, the circumstances surrounding the crash must be thoroughly examined to determine the cause and to prevent similar accidents in the future.
“In fact, how can a chartered Airbus EC130 helicopter flying from Palm Springs, California, to Boulder City, Nevada, just outside of Las Vegas, operated by California-based charter company Orbic Air, taking off around 8:45 p.m. PT and crashed just after 10 p.m. near Interstate 15 in Halloran Springs, California, just like that?”
“According to the report, the helicopter caught fire upon impact. Witnesses also reported rain and a wintry mix when the crash happened.
“We at the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria are calling on the authorities and the United States Government to launch a comprehensive investigation into the crash, including gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing the helicopter’s maintenance records and flight data. It is essential to uncover any potential factors that may have contributed to the crash, such as mechanical issues, pilot error, or environmental conditions.
“Additionally, all individuals and entities involved in the operation of the helicopter should be properly investigated to provide a clear understanding of what led to the tragedy. This includes the helicopter company, pilot, and any other relevant parties.
“Nigeria, the family, friends, and colleagues of Herbert Wigwe deserve answers and open reports in the wake of this devastating loss. The investigation must be conducted thoroughly and transparently to ensure accountability and prevent future tragedies.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Nigerians the Nigerian government, and the families of the demised, may we all find strength and comfort. Herbert Wigwe will be greatly missed, and his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him,” the group said.
