The family of Opral Benson, the Iya Oge of Lagos, has declared her missing, sparking growing concern over her whereabouts.
In a public notice released on Sunday, the family disclosed that the 90-year-old was last seen on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, and has not returned home since then.
Describing the situation as urgent and time-sensitive, the family appealed to members of the public to assist with any information that could help locate her.
“The family reports that Mama Opral Benson has been missing since Tuesday, January 13, 2026. She has not returned home and her current whereabouts are unknown,” the notice stated.
“Anyone who has seen her or has any information, no matter how small, is urged to contact us immediately. Call 08037039214. Alternatively, please report to the nearest police station. This is time-sensitive. Please share immediately.”
Opral Benson, born on February 7, 1935, is an American-Liberian and Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite with a distinguished career spanning education, fashion, and corporate administration. She holds the revered traditional title of Iya Oge of Lagos, a role associated with leadership and influence in Lagos society.
She was married to Chief Theophilus O. S. Benson, former Minister of Information, Broadcasting and Culture in Nigeria’s first post-independence government, from 1962 until his death in 2008.
As at the time of filing this report, no further details have emerged regarding the circumstances surrounding her disappearance. The family continues to urge the public to assist in locating her as concerns grow due to her age.
