Isiokpo RCCG Parish prepares for Herbert Wigwe’s funeral

The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Parish in Isiokpo is undergoing a transformation as it readies itself for the funeral of the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe, a cherished member and benefactor of the congregation. The 48-acre “Lion of Judah” Parish is abuzz with activity, with lands being sand-filled for expanded car parking in anticipation of the large crowd expected to attend the funeral next Saturday.

The parish, which boasts a 1000-seater auditorium adorned with 12 standing split air conditioning units, a legacy built by the late billionaire, is undergoing renovations to honor the memory of a man who touched countless lives. Nearby residents have generously donated their farmlands to aid in the expansion of parking facilities, while the church itself has extended its boundaries to accommodate the influx of guests.

During a visit by Saturday Vanguard, Pastor Moses Abe, the provincial pastor of Rivers 20, Isiokpo parish, was away for a meeting in Lagos. However, Parish pastor Olaniyan Samuel was on hand to share insights into the preparations. “Our goal here is to ensure smooth traffic flow and ease of movement for both people and vehicles on that significant day,” Pastor Samuel remarked.

“Our dear brother Wigwe constructed the main church building before his passing. It was officially commissioned by the General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye. He lived a remarkable life, and we intend to celebrate him in a manner befitting his legacy,” Pastor Olaniyan continued.

The entire congregation will don Ankara attire on Saturday for the burial ceremony, while Sunday’s Thanksgiving service will see all members dressed in white. “This is how we choose to honor him. We will forever cherish his memory and the impact he made during his lifetime,” Pastor Olaniyan affirmed.

Reflecting on Dr. Wigwe’s last visit to the church premises before his fateful journey, Pastor Olaniyan recounted the late philanthropist’s promise to ensure the completion of an electricity project in the community. “That was the last time we saw him. Some communities had already begun to benefit from the electricity before his untimely passing,” he recalled.

Despite the sorrow of their son’s demise, the Wigwe family has generously provided Ankara materials for the church members in Isiokpo. In return, Pastor Olaniyan expressed the church’s commitment to extending its presence on the university campus to uphold the legacies and vision of the late Dr. Herbert Wigwe.