Dare Babalola
The Iya Oge of Lagos, Opral Benson, has been declared missing days after she left her residence for an unknown destination.
The family announced this in a statement, saying her whereabouts have been unknown for more than six days since she left home.
According to a missing person notice circulated on Sunday, Mama Benson has been missing since Tuesday, January 13, 2025, and has not returned home since then.
The family described the situation as time-sensitive, appealing to members of the public to assist with any useful information that could help locate her.
“Anyone who has seen her or has any information, no matter how small, is urged to contact immediately,” the notice stated.
The family has provided a contact line for information and emergency updates: 08037039214.
Members of the public are also advised to report to the nearest police station if they have any information that could aid efforts to find her.
The family urged Nigerians, especially residents across Lagos and neighbouring communities, to share the alert widely to increase the chances of locating her quickly.
Benson, born on February 7, 1935, is an American-Liberian and Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite. She holds the traditional chieftaincy title of Iya Oge of Lagos.
She was married to T.O.S. Benson from 1962 until his death and has had a long career spanning education, fashion and corporate administration.
A former university administrator, Benson manages a fashion and beauty school in Lagos and previously served as a director at Johnson’s Products, the Nigerian affiliate of the multinational brand.
In 2012, she was appointed the honorary consul of Liberia in Lagos.
