A former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, broke down in tears while paying tribute to the late Herbert Wigwe and his family.
He reflected on his deposition as the Emir of Kano, using it to highlight Wigwe’s loyalty to those close to him.
Sanusi made the remarks on Wednesday while addressing a crowd of mourners in Lagos during the funeral service for Wigwe.
His words: “You know when I had problems in Kano, I called him about six months before I was told to leave Kano and I said to him, Herbert, I know you did all your best to solve all this problem, but I’m convinced that this is what is going to happen.
“He said to me: ‘Your Highness, don’t worry, whatever happens, don’t worry, we’re here for you.’
“On the day I heard on the radio that I was dethroned, the night before, I knew this was going to happen and I called him and said I want to come to Lagos when it happens.
“The announcement was made at about 9am by noon Herbert had a plane on the terminal in Kano.
“I put my family on that plane.
“No message, no phone call, nothing.
“Just put them on that plane and send them to Lagos.
“Herbert received them.
“Put them in a hotel.
“Later got them flats, and got them accommodation.
“For months when I came we stayed there.
“I can go on and on.
“Sola (Wigwe’s P. A) is here.
“Herbert said to me: ‘Your Highness, you want to travel? Talk to Sola.’
“I just call Shola and I get a jet.
“So much so that people believe I own the jet. So people believe.”
Sanusi also shared another story on why he placed Wigwe in charge of a trust fund he set up for his children.
He added: “About two years ago, I put all my savings in a trust for the education of my children because I have many.
“My priority as a father is to make sure that when I pass away, they will have a good education.
“Paul was a solicitor put in that trust, Herbert was the lead protector.
“Paul will remember when we had the first formal meeting, I said, ‘Herbert I am placing you in charge of this trust for the education of my children because I know that even if I died and did not leave any money, you will educate our children.’”
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