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In the heart of Isiokpo, Nigeria, a meticulous transformation is underway as the community readies itself for the solemn farewell of the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe, a celebrated business magnate who tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash alongside his wife and son.  

The journey from the Port Harcourt International Airport to Wigwe International University, spanning ten kilometers, is marked by a palpable sense of anticipation, with every turn in the hinterland reflecting a new visage in readiness for an "august visitor."

The final burial arrangements for the billionaire mogul are proceeding at a hypersonic pace, with roads being cleared, potholes rectified, and contractors overseeing the University project working diligently. The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and the Isiokpo parish stand as dignified symbols, adorned in a manner befitting the occasion.

Numerous hectares of land, either generously donated or strategically acquired, have been designated as sprawling car parks to alleviate the expected surge in human and vehicular traffic on the day of the burial. Isiokpo kingdom is brimming with eagerness to welcome back its prodigious son, as Dr. Wigwe is slated to find eternal rest on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at the Port Harcourt International Airport, Omagwa.

In a poignant twist, the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe, seemingly with a premonition of his fate, had already erected a magnificent private tomb within the expansive University environment. This mausoleum, accessed through a stamped concrete walkway enveloped by lush greenery, stands as a testament to the wealth that characterized his life, with three tombs constructed from state-of-the-art Italian Carara marble and adorned with foreign granite galaxy.

A poignant inscription, "Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength," adorns the top corner of the mausoleum, serving as a poignant reminder of the billionaire's spiritual fortitude. The transparent private cemetery, with its opulent aesthetics, attests that Dr. Herbert Wigwe's affluence not only endured in life but appears even richer in death.

As thousands of foreign guests prepare to pay their final respects to this rare gem, the expansive landmass of the Wigwe International University takes center stage. Noteworthy is the university's commitment to local content, with 60% of labor deployed from Rivers State, 20% from Isiokpo, and the remaining 20% from the rest of Nigeria, exemplifying the detribalized vision of its founder.

However, uncertainties loom over the realization of Dr. Wigwe's grand vision, as a credible source laments the uncertainty surrounding its fruition. Despite this, the source emphasizes the spiritual aspect, asserting that only the visionary himself could ensure the manifestation of his dreams.

Within the university enclave, a flurry of activity unfolds, with buildings receiving an accelerated touch marked by a uniform color palette of pure white and black corrugated roofs. The internal road construction proceeds at a rapid pace, orchestrated by a staff well-aware of their roles in this ambitious endeavor.

The 48-acre "Lion of Judah" Parish of RCCG in Isiokpo is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with lands being filled for anticipated car parking and the 1000-seater auditorium, a testament to Dr. Wigwe's philanthropy, undergoing renovations to reflect his esteemed status.

The Parish pastor, Olaniyan Samuel, elucidates the meticulous preparations, emphasizing the desire to honor Dr. Wigwe's legacy. He highlights the church's intention to appear in Ankara material for the burial and don white attire for the Thanksgiving service, underscoring their commitment to celebrating a life well-lived.

The grief-stricken Wigwe family, undeterred by the pain of their son's demise, generously provides Ankara material for the church members in Isiokpo. In reciprocity, the church plans to extend its presence to the University campus, aiming to perpetuate the legacies and vision of the late Wigwe.

Dr. Chukwudi Dimgba, a front-line politician in Isiokpo, emotionally reminisces about the profound impact of late Herbert Wigwe, portraying him as the "light of Isiokpo kingdom" who elevated the community through numerous legacy projects and empowerment programs.

However, amidst the preparations, the youth of Isiokpo present a challenging scenario. They demand immediate explanations from both the United States and Nigerian governments regarding the helicopter crash, questioning the "silence" surrounding the root cause of the tragedy. The Chief Security Officer of Isiokpo kingdom, Wobodo Amadi jnr, calls for transparency, threatening peaceful protests if convincing reasons are not presented.

The funeral preparations, nonetheless, continue with unwavering determination. The Isiokpo youth, prepared to wear black attire on the burial day, pledge to secure the Port Harcourt International Airport and provide security for the visitors. Despite their grief, they express bitterness over the loss of a benefactor who played a pivotal role in the peace and development of Isiokpo.

In a poignant reflection on the uncertainties surrounding the helicopter crash, the youth raise serious allegations that the cause may not have been weather-related. As the community prepares for the final burial on Saturday, March 9, a looming debate over the predetermined nature of the Wigwes' death hints at a potential shift in the pendulum of blame.

Dr. Herbert Wigwe, a business tycoon with connections to the elite, remains an enigmatic figure whose influence extended from state governors to global business partners. His legacy, one of bridging social divides, will undoubtedly be a source of hope for many in Isiokpo. As the community ensures his peaceful rest alongside his wife and son, the intricate narratives of grief, celebration, and accountability converge in the saga of a man who left an indelible mark on his people.