VENO tv: PEOPLE'S SECURITY MONITOR: ALARM RAISED AS IYA OGE OF LAGOS, OPRAL BENSON, GOES MISSING Date: 20-01-26
Concern is mounting following the mysterious disappearance of renowned cultural icon and highlife matriarch, Opral Benson, popularly known as the Iya Oge of Lagos, whose whereabouts have remained unknown for more than 48 hours.
In a public notice released on Sunday, the family confirmed that Benson was last seen on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, and has not returned home since then, triggering growing anxiety among relatives, associates, and members of the cultural community.
Describing the situation as urgent and time-sensitive, the family appealed to the public for assistance, urging anyone with useful information to come forward immediately.
“Mama Opral Benson has been missing since Tuesday, January 13, 2026. She has not returned home, and her current whereabouts remain unknown,” the family stated.
Opral Benson is widely respected as a custodian of Lagos highlife heritage, celebrated for her decades-long contribution to traditional music, dance, fashion, and community leadership. As Iya Oge of Lagos, she holds a revered position within Yoruba cultural circles, serving as a bridge between generations and a strong voice for the preservation of indigenous identity.
Her influence extends beyond performance and ceremonial roles, as she has mentored numerous young artists and cultural practitioners, earning her deep respect within Lagos social and artistic spaces. News of her disappearance has therefore sparked widespread concern, particularly among highlife musicians, cultural historians, and traditional institutions.
Family sources say efforts are ongoing to trace her movements prior to her disappearance, while community leaders have begun mobilising support to aid the search. The family has also encouraged residents of Lagos and its environs to remain alert and report any sightings or credible information.
As anxiety grows with each passing hour, the family reiterated its appeal for collective action, stressing that every piece of information, no matter how small, could prove crucial in locating the missing cultural icon.