Family of 90-Year-Old Lagos Socialite Opral Benson Declares Her Missing
The Nigerian social and diplomatic community has been thrown into a state of alarm following the sudden disappearance of celebrated entrepreneur and society matriarch, Chief (Mrs) Opral Benson. The family of the 90-year-old icon, affectionately known as Iya Oge of Lagos, has issued an urgent public notice after she failed to return to her residence for more than 48 hours.
Details of the Disappearance
According to the family statement released on Sunday, January 18, 2026, Opral Benson was last seen on Tuesday, January 13. She did not return home at her usual time, which immediately raised concerns among her loved ones. Initially, family members hoped she might have visited close associates or friends, but as hours turned into days without any contact, their worry escalated significantly.
The family described the situation as extremely sensitive and has mobilized all available resources to locate her. After conducting private searches and contacting friends, neighbors, and business associates without success, they decided to make a public appeal for assistance.
Family's Emotional Appeal
In their public notice, the family stated clearly: "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." They have provided emergency contact numbers and are urging anyone with information—no matter how small or insignificant it may seem—to come forward immediately.
The family has requested that anyone with leads should call 08037039214 or report directly to the nearest police station. Sources close to the family describe the atmosphere in the household as tense and deeply emotional, with relatives working around the clock alongside security agencies to trace her movements.
Impact on Nigerian Society
The disappearance has sent shockwaves through multiple communities in Nigeria. Opral Benson is not just a socialite but a revered figure across Nigeria's social, business, and diplomatic circles. Born on February 7, 1935, as an American-Liberian, she became a prominent fixture in Lagos society after marrying T.O.S. Benson in 1962. This union positioned her at the very heart of Nigerian public life for decades.
Her absence has particularly affected:
- The fashion community where she earned the title Iya Oge
- Diplomatic circles where she maintained significant influence
- Business networks across Lagos and beyond
- Celebrity and socialite communities throughout Nigeria
Broader Context of Missing Persons Cases
This incident occurs amid other high-profile missing persons cases that have captured public attention. In a separate development, Nollywood star Kemi Afolabi Adesipe recently took to social media to begin a heartfelt search for her childhood friend, Maria Stephen Seun. The Yoruba actress explained that repeated dreams about her friend prompted the search, wanting to ensure Maria's wellbeing.
Additionally, Nollywood actress and politician Chioma Ifemeludike has made serious allegations against colleague Doris Ogala regarding a missing child case, claiming Ogala confessed to collecting N45 million for her involvement. These cases highlight the growing concern about missing persons across different segments of Nigerian society.
Current Status and Public Response
As of the latest updates, there has been no confirmed sighting of Opral Benson since January 13. The family continues to work closely with security agencies while maintaining their public appeal for information. The situation remains fluid, with the family emphasizing that even the smallest detail could prove crucial in locating the nonagenarian socialite.
The disappearance of such a prominent figure at age 90 has raised particular concerns about the safety and security of elderly citizens in urban centers like Lagos. Many are hoping for her safe return while the search intensifies across the city and beyond.
