Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party LP, Peter Obi, has canceled his planned trip to Abidjan for the AFCON finals between Nigeria and Ivory Coast due to a helicopter crash tragedy. Obi expressed profound sadness over the death of close friend Herbert Wigwe, Chairman of Access Holdings, along with Wigwe’s wife, son, and seasoned banker Abimbola Ogunbanjo in the California crash.

Obi, a staunch supporter of the Super Eagles, had initially been in Abidjan to cheer the team during the quarter-final match against Angola. The tragic news reached him just as he was about to depart Nigeria.

A statement from Obi’s Media Office highlighted his deep connection to football, tracing back to his student days at Christ the King College (CKC), Onitsha. As Governor, he further demonstrated his love for the game by renaming the Onitsha township stadium after the first National team Captain, Godwin Achebe.

Despite the cancellation of his trip, Obi expressed his continued support for the Super Eagles, wishing them victory to bring home the trophy. In his X handle, he shared his sorrow over the loss of Herbert Wigwe, praising him for his determined leadership at Access Bank and philanthropic efforts in health and education.

Obi’s heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to Herbert, his family, and all those affected by the tragic plane crash. The statement concluded with a message of remembrance and a call to live with purpose, contributing to the betterment of humanity.