The African Refugees Foundation (AREF) has dismissed reports claiming that the Iya Oge of Lagos, Chief (Mrs) Opral Benson, is missing, stating that she is alive, safe and currently in Liberia.
AREF made the clarification on Tuesday following widespread public concern generated by earlier reports from some members of her family alleging that the 90-year-old socialite had gone missing after she was last seen on January 13.
In a statement signed by its Chief Executive Officer, Olujimi Olusola III, the foundation said Chief Benson’s presence in Liberia was voluntary and well known, stressing that there was no cause for alarm.
“AREF confirms that Mrs Benson is currently in Liberia. Her presence there is voluntary and known. She is hale and hearty,” the statement read.
The organisation urged members of the public and media outlets to disregard what it described as false and misleading reports, warning against the circulation of unverified information capable of causing unnecessary panic.
AREF also reaffirmed its commitment to the promotion of accurate information and the protection of the dignity of individuals under its care.
Chief Benson, born on February 7, 1935, is an American-Liberian and Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite who holds the traditional chieftaincy title of Iya Oge of Lagos.
She has enjoyed a distinguished career across education, fashion and corporate administration, having served as a university administrator and as a director of Johnson’s Products, the Nigerian affiliate of the multinational brand. She is also the founder of a fashion and beauty school in Lagos and was appointed Honorary Consul of Liberia in Lagos in 2012.
Chief Benson was married to the late former Minister of Information, Broadcasting and Culture, Chief Theophilus Benson, from 1962 until his death.
