The Lagos High Court’s Probate Registry has summoned Christian Chukwuka Wigwe to appear within eight days to address a legal dispute concerning the estate of the late Herbert Wigwe, former CEO of Access Bank.
Christian, who claims to be a cousin of the deceased, is contesting the provisions of Herbert Wigwe’s will and how his assets are to be distributed.
The court has instructed him to present his case either in person or through legal representation, as specified in the summons issued in Probate Form 7. This directive requires Christian to declare his interest in the estate or provide reasons for opposing the probate process, which is necessary for validating the will.
This case highlights the contentious nature of Herbert Wigwe’s significant estate, given his influential status in the banking sector. According to the Probate Registry, even if Christian does not hold a direct claim to the assets, he can still contest the probate proceedings by filing a summons to request further court directives.
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“Be aware that failure to respond may lead to the court proceeding with the grant of probate or administration of the estate, regardless of any caveat you may have filed,” the registry stated, as reported by The Nation.
This legal situation adds further complexity to ongoing controversies within the Wigwe family regarding control over the late banker’s assets. Christian has previously submitted an Affidavit of Truth, accusing Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Herbert’s former business partner, of taking indirect control over the estate and guardianship of Herbert’s children.
In court documents dated October 7, 2024, Christian alleged that Aig-Imoukhuede assumed control of the estate without proper accountability, contrary to Herbert Wigwe’s wishes expressed in his will.
Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede and Herbert Wigwe were long-time friends and co-founders of Access Bank, having left their positions as Executive Directors at GTBank to acquire and expand Access Bank in the early 2000s. Herbert succeeded Aigboje as Group CEO in 2010, following a Central Bank of Nigeria policy that required CEOs to step down after serving for ten years.
Under Herbert’s leadership, Access Bank saw significant growth across Africa, including the acquisition of Diamond Bank and several banks in Kenya and South Africa.
Reports indicate that Herbert Wigwe’s parents have also filed a caveat at the Probate Registry, contesting the terms of his will. This caveat was reportedly filed with the guidance of Pastor Shyngle, with Christian Chukwuka Wigwe supporting the move through an affidavit.
However, Pastor Shyngle has denied any involvement in disputes over his late son’s property. In a statement issued by Emeka Wigwe on behalf of the family, the claims were refuted, with the family asserting that they had never sought a percentage of Herbert’s estate.
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