REPORT ON HELICOPTER CRASH INVOLVING HERBERT WIGWE & FAMILY: INVESTIGATIVE FINDINGS AND FAMILY RESPONSE

Date: May 8, 2025

A recent investigative report into the tragic helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Mr. Herbert Wigwe, his wife Chizoba, their son Chizi Wigwe, and others, has revealed troubling findings regarding pilot error and possible company negligence. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has attributed the accident to spatial disorientation experienced by the pilot, compounded by adverse weather conditions and a malfunctioning altimeter — a critical flight instrument.

Key Findings from the Report
The investigative findings, as reported by NewsClick Nigeria, cite the following:

• Pilot Spatial Disorientation: The pilot was reportedly unable to maintain spatial orientation in poor visibility, leading to a fatal loss of control.
• Altimeter Malfunction: The helicopter was operated despite a known malfunction in the altimeter system, an essential tool for measuring altitude — especially vital in night or low-visibility flying conditions.
• Company Negligence: Questions have been raised about the decision-making process that allowed the flight to proceed under such conditions. This suggests possible lapses in standard aviation safety protocols by the operating company.

Family’s Response
In a statement released through Mr. Emeka Wigwe on behalf of the family of Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, the family expressed profound distress over the public release of the investigative report without prior notification or sensitivity to the bereaved. Their statement reads:

“The family of Pastor Shyngle Wigwe have seen the report of investigations into the circumstances surrounding the ill-fated helicopter crash which claimed the lives of Herbert, Chizoba, and Chizi Wigwe in the media. It is traumatic that such information is shared without consideration for the family, especially aged parents, orphaned children, and surviving siblings.

The aviation industry is governed by very strict regulations and practices to ensure the safety of flights. It was negligent to operate a flight when a malfunctioning ALTIMETER had been identified. It is imperative that all circumstances surrounding the operation of the flight should be interrogated. It is known that fatalities in aviation accidents are often absolute.

We are considering the report and shall react as necessary and appropriate.”

— Signed,
Emeka Wigwe
For the family

The tragedy has reignited concerns about flight safety, especially under adverse weather conditions and in cases where mechanical issues are known prior to takeoff. As the family mourns, they have called for a deeper and more thorough examination into the incident, and they reserve the right to respond formally once they have fully reviewed the report.

Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available and once the family issues any additional public statements.