Anxiety has turned into relief as Opral Benson, the 90-year-old Lagos socialite and Iya Oge of Lagos who was earlier declared missing, has been reportedly found alive in Liberia.
The development came days after her family raised alarm that her whereabouts had been unknown for over 48 hours, triggering widespread concern and a public search.
A source close to the family confirmed the breakthrough on Tuesday evening, hinting at possible health challenges linked to age.
“They have located her in Liberia. I think she might be suffering from dementia due to old age,” the source said.
The family had earlier described the situation as urgent after Benson was last seen on January 13 and failed to return home. In a public notice, they appealed to Nigerians to assist with any information that could lead to her recovery.
“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, Opral Benson is an Americo-Liberian and Nigerian entrepreneur and a prominent figure in Lagos social circles. She holds the revered chieftaincy title of Iya Oge of Lagos.
She married Chief T.O.S. Benson in 1962, a marriage that endured until his death. Beyond her social influence, Benson built a notable career as a university administrator and played a key role in Nigeria’s fashion and beauty industry, managing a school in Lagos and serving as director of the Nigerian affiliate of Johnson’s Products.
In 2012, she was appointed Honorary Consul of Liberia in Lagos, cementing her influence across Nigeria and Liberia.
