Family Declares Iya Oge Of Lagos, Opral Benson, Missing

The family of Chief (Mrs) Opral Benson, the Iya Oge of Lagos, has declared her missing, stating that her whereabouts have been unknown for more than 48 hours.

In a notice released on Sunday, the family said Benson was last seen on January 13 and has not returned home since. Describing the situation as urgent, they appealed to the public for 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 reads.

“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.”

Born on February 7, 1935, Benson is an American-Liberian and Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite. She holds the traditional chieftaincy title of Iya Oge of Lagos.

Benson was married to the late Chief 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, she 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 honorary consul of Liberia in Lagos.