Probate registry issues ultimatum over Herbert Wigwe’s estate dispute

Following the filing of a caveat at the Lagos High Court’s Probate Registry, challenging the distribution of the estate of the late Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, as outlined in his will, the registry has issued an eight-day ultimatum to Christian Chukwuka Wigwe to enter an appearance.

The registry directed Christian Wigwe to appear within eight days, either in person or through his lawyer, to clarify his interest in the estate.

In a Probate Form 7 warning, pursuant to Order 62 Rule 18(8), sighted by The Guardian, the registry ordered Wigwe to declare his interest in the estate or file objections to the sealing of a grant. Should he fail to act, the court may proceed to issue a grant of probate or administration in the estate despite the caveat.

The warning was issued at the request of Mr Uchechukwu N. Wigwe, the appointed personal representative of the estate, as stated in the will dated July 9, 2013.

It should be recalled that Pastor Shyngle Wigwe, father of the late Herbert Wigwe, denied allegations of a family dispute over his late son’s property.

An online publication had claimed that Herbert’s parents, under Shyngle’s instruction, filed a caveat to challenge the distribution of his estate. The caveat was reportedly supported by an affidavit from Christian Chukwuka Wigwe, who claims to be Herbert’s cousin.

The legal challenge allegedly seeks to alter the terms of Herbert’s will, directing his wealth to be distributed solely among his children.

The publication further alleged that Shyngle had requested 20 per cent of the estate for himself and other family members, contradicting Herbert’s stated wishes.

However, in a recent statement signed by Emeka Wigwe on behalf of the family, the father refuted the claims, asserting that he had never requested a share of his late son’s estate.