The African Refugees Foundation (AREF) has dismissed reports suggesting that Chief (Mrs) Opral Benson, popularly known as the Iya Oge of Lagos, is missing.
In a statement released on Tuesday, AREF clarified that the 90-year-old socialite is safe and currently in Liberia, contrary to claims that her whereabouts were unknown.
Recent reports had alleged that Benson was last seen on January 13 and failed to return home, raising fears about her safety. However, AREF described the claims as inaccurate and misleading.
The clarification was contained in a statement signed by the foundation’s Chief Executive Officer, Olujimi Olusola III, who explained that Benson travelled voluntarily and that her location is fully known.
“AREF confirms that Mrs Benson is presently in Liberia. She is hale and hearty, and her presence there is voluntary and fully accounted for,” the statement said.
The foundation urged the public and media organisations to ignore unverified reports and refrain from spreading information capable of causing unnecessary panic.
AREF also reaffirmed its commitment to truth, the protection of individual dignity, and the dissemination of accurate information to the public.
