Former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II has confessed entrusting the education of his children in the hands of late Group Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings Plc, Herbert Wigwe.
Wigwe died recently in a helicopter accident along with his wife and son in America.
The former Emir, who could not control his charged emotion as he broke down in tears while paying tribute to Wigwe during the night of tribute held at the Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos state on Wednesday, March 6, said: “about two years ago, I put all my savings into a Trust for the education of my children.
“I have many and my priority as a father is to make sure that when I pass away, they will have good education.
“I told Herbert I am placing you in charge of this Trust for the education of my children because I know that even if I die and did not leave any money, you will educate my children. I thought I would die before Herbert.”
Sanusi, who is the present Khalifa of Tijjaniyya Islamic sect broke down in tears as he said this.
He went on to recall how the late banker stood by his side all through his travails after being removed as Emir of Kano by former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje.
Sanusi said that Herbert assured him of his unflinching support and loyalty, adding that to match words with action, Herbert provided a plane for him at the tarmac in Kano to convey him to Lagos after his dethronement.
“When I had problems in Kano, I called him about six months before I was told to leave Kano. I said to him, Herbert I know you are doing all your best to solve all these problems, but I am convinced that this is what is going to happen.”
And he said to me: “Your Highness, don’t worry. Whatever happens, don’t worry. We are here for you.
“On the day I heard on the radio that I was dethroned, I called him and said I wanted to come to Lagos.
“The announcement was made about 9 am, by noon, Herbert had a plane at the tarmac in Kano. The plane then was to take me into exile for many years. I put my family on that plane and sent them to Lagos, with no phone calls. Herbert received them and put them in a hotel.
“Later, he got them accommodation. For months, when I came, they stayed there.
He said to me: “Your Highness, if you want to travel, just call Shola.”
