Tragic US Helicopter Crash: Nigeria Steps Into Investigation As Herbert Wigwe Among Victims

Tragic US Helicopter Crash: Nigeria Steps Into Investigation As Herbert Wigwe Among Victims

The Nigerian government has plunged into the investigation of the helicopter crash that claimed the life of Herbert Wigwe, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, along with five others in the United States…..READ ALSO Breaking News: NTSB Reveals Information On Helicopter Crash Involving Ogunbanjo, Wigwe

Herbert Wigwe, his wife, son, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former Group Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group Plc (NGX Group), were among the fatalities in the crash, which occurred on Friday in California, United States.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) of the United States had already initiated an investigation into the tragic incident.

In a statement released on Monday by the spokesperson of the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Bimbo Olawunmi Oladeji, it was disclosed that Nigeria has offered full cooperation to the NTSB in the investigation.

The NSIB emphasized that Nigeria’s Director General, Captain Alex Badeh, established contact with the NTSB, in accordance with the relevant aviation regulations, to ensure Nigeria’s involvement in the investigation due to the involvement of its citizens.

The NSIB further revealed that the US authorities confirmed the loss of all occupants aboard the helicopter, which was operated by Orbic Air, LLC as a Part 135 charter flight.

According to the NSIB, the investigation by the NTSB is expected to span approximately 18 to 24 months before reaching a conclusive outcome.

The NSIB highlighted the diligence of the NTSB investigators, who were present at the crash scene in Halloran Springs, California, to collect evidence and conduct initial on-scene documentation. The investigation is being led by Aaron Sauer, with Mark Ward as the deputy investigator in charge.

Orbic Air, LLC, and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are among the parties to the investigation, with the French aviation accident investigation agency, the Bureau of Enquiry and Analysis for Civil Aviation Safety (BEA), also playing a role as an accredited representative due to France being the state of manufacturer for the Airbus helicopter and Turbomeca Engine involved in the crash.

As the investigation progresses, Airbus Helicopters and Turbomeca Engines will serve as technical advisors to ensure a thorough examination and analysis of the wreckage.

In essence, Nigeria’s involvement underscores the nation’s commitment to seeking answers and closure for the families of the victims amidst this tragic incident.