The family of Opral Benson, the Iya Oge of Lagos, has refuted reports that she is missing, clarifying that she is currently outside the country.
A missing person notice circulated on Sunday had claimed that Benson’s whereabouts were unknown, stating that she was last seen on January 13 and had not returned home since then.
However, a source close to the family told TheCable Lifestyle on Tuesday that the report was “inaccurate”.
“Mama Opral is in Liberia visiting family. Precious and her Assistant are with her,” the source said.
According to the source, the missing notice may have resulted from a breakdown in communication within the family, noting that the individual who shared it may not have been aware of Benson’s trip.
The source further explained that Precious, Benson’s daughter, is presently with her in Liberia, while Bimbo Cardoso, who circulated the notice online, is her stepdaughter.
“Bimbo, who put the notice out, has been described as drama queen. Maybe she wasnt told before they left,” the source said.
“Precious is Opral Benson’s daughter. Bimbo Cardoso is a stepdaughter.”
The African Refugees Foundation (AREF) also confirmed that Benson, who is its president, is “alive, safe and not missing”.
In a statement, Olujimi Olusola, Chief Executive Officer of AREF, said Benson is “hale and hearty” and that there was no reason for concern.
“AREF confirms that Mrs. Benson is currently in Liberia, her presence there is voluntary and known,” the statement read.
“We urge members of the public, media organizations, and community stakeholders to disregard the false and misleading reports and refrain from spreading unverified information that may cause unnecessary alarm.
“The Foundation remains committed to promoting truth, protecting the dignity of individuals under its care, and ensuring that accurate information is made available to the public.”
Benson, who was born on February 7, 1935, is an American-Liberian and Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite. She holds the chieftaincy title of Iya Oge of Lagos and was married to T.O.S. Benson from 1962 until his death. She has remained active in fashion, beauty, and public service, including her role as Liberia’s honorary consul in Lagos.