February 12, 2024 NewsOrient
News, Opinion
By Kalu Onuma

Life is indeed a strange and unpredictable journey. The news of the tragic passing of Herbert Wigwe of Access Bank Plc, along with his wife, son, and others, has left the nation in a state of sadness.

The media wasted no time in spreading the news, and social media platforms are now flooded with sincere and insincere expressions of grief and heartfelt messages.

But amidst all the posts and eulogies, it is important to remember that these words cannot bring him back to life.

Life, like a river, keeps flowing, and many people have already moved on, as others will do when it is our time to depart from this world.

The breaking news did not stop people from living their lives. They continued to eat, drink, watch football, and engage in their favorite activities.

And as I scrolled through my social media feed today, I noticed how quickly many have seemingly moved on, making me question whether the news was real or true. Our lives are transient and inexplicable. We are left grappling with the question of how to reconcile with death, an event that bewilders our minds and defies reasoning.

Nothing truly explains it to us. It is irrational and blindsides us when we least expect it.

Herbert Wigwe’s name and face were prominent in the headlines yesterday, but what about the countless unknown individuals who pass away each day, slipping away unnoticed, unsung, and sadly, not missed?

The crowds will cheer for a lost sports match, shedding tears for the outcome. Yet, deep down, we are all walking corpses, waiting for our turn to be addressed in past tense.

Our names become difficult to call, hard to mention, and for many, they become intertwined with memories that fade over time.

I am left utterly bewildered by the way we perceive, treat, and react to death. It is a concept that constantly eludes our understanding.

But in this state of confusion and despair, I find solace in the belief that if God does not guide us through this ordeal, who else will?

We must seek His guidance and find comfort in knowing that death is but a passage to another realm, and that our true essence lies beyond the limitations of our mortal bodies.

Our attitudes towards death and dying are often met with a mixture of fear, avoidance, and denial.

It is an uncomfortable topic that we try our best to push to the far reaches of our minds. We live in a society that values youth, vitality, and the pursuit of happiness, so thoughts of our inevitable demise are often met with resistance.

However, by confronting the reality of death, we can gain an understanding of the cycles of life and appreciate the fragility and preciousness of each moment.

Death acts as a powerful catalyst for introspection and self-reflection. It forces us to evaluate our priorities, reassess our goals, and confront our fears.

It is in these moments of contemplation that we often come to realize the impermanence of our existence and the importance of living a life aligned with our values and passions.

Memories play a significant role in how we remember and honor those who have passed away.

They provide us with a way to keep our loved ones alive in our hearts and minds.

Memories can be both a source of comfort and pain, evoking emotions and senses that transport us back to precious moments shared with those we have lost.

They serve as a reminder of the impact that individuals had on our lives and the legacy they leave behind.

Our senses are intimately intertwined with our memories and reflections. The smell of a familiar perfume, the taste of a favorite dish, or the sound of a cherished song can trigger a flood of memories and emotions.

These sensory experiences have the power to transport us back in time, allowing us to relive moments and connect with our loved ones in a profound way.

They help to keep their presence alive and give us a sense of comfort and connection.

In the face of death, we must remember that life is not just about the destination but the journey itself.

It is about experiencing the ups and downs, the joys and sorrows, and the connections we make along the way.

It is in these experiences that we find meaning and purpose, and it is through the memories and reflections we hold dear that we can keep the spirit of our departed loved ones alive.

Let us not shy away from conversations about death and dying.

Instead, let us embrace them as an opportunity to deepen our understanding of life and to appreciate the fleeting nature of our existence.

By confronting death, cherishing memories, and reflecting on our senses, we can approach life with a greater sense of gratitude, mindfulness, and purpose.

And in doing so, we honor the memories of those we have lost and create a meaningful legacy for ourselves.

In this uncertain and ever-changing world, let us cherish every moment, appreciate our loved ones while they are still with us, and strive to leave a lasting legacy that will transcend time.

Death may constantly loom over us, but it is up to us to embrace life and make the most of the precious time we have been given.

Herbert Wigwe, an extraordinary leader and visionary, leaves behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

As the Group Managing Director of Access Bank Plc, he transformed the landscape of the banking industry, leaving an indelible mark on the institution and the lives of countless individuals.

Herbert’s unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation was evident in every aspect of his work.

He propelled Access Bank to new heights, steering it through turbulent economic times and emerging as a formidable force in the financial sector.

His strategic foresight and bold decision-making allowed the bank to expand its reach and impact, enabling it to become one of the leading financial institutions in Africa.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Herbert will be remembered for his compassion, integrity, and genuine care for people.

He had an innate ability to connect with others on a deep level, fostering a sense of trust and camaraderie.

He believed in the power of teamwork and collaboration, always striving to bring out the best in his colleagues and inspire them to reach their fullest potential.

Herbert’s leadership extended beyond the boardroom. He was a champion of social causes and believed in giving back to society.

Under his guidance, Access Bank launched numerous community development initiatives, empowering disadvantaged individuals and communities, and creating sustainable change.

He was a firm believer in the importance of corporate social responsibility and used his influence to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

There are no words to adequately express the void that Herbert’s passing has left in our hearts and in the banking industry.

His charismatic presence, infectious enthusiasm, and genuine warmth will be deeply missed.

But as we mourn his loss, let us also celebrate the incredible life he lived and the profound impact he had on so many.

To Herbert’s family, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. May you find solace in the cherished memories you shared with him and take comfort in knowing that his legacy will live on through the lives he touched and the values he instilled.

Herbert Wigwe, a true visionary and humanitarian, will be remembered as a trailblazer who transformed an industry, inspired a generation, and made a lasting difference in the lives of countless individuals. May his soul rest in eternal peace.

May the souls of Herbert Wigwe, his wife, son, and all those who have departed rest in eternal peace. Let us hold onto the memories of those we have lost and carry their spirits within us as a reminder to live each day to the fullest, for we never know when it will be our time to join them in the great unknown.

©️ AI-KO
February 11th 2024

~ NewsOrient