An elderly woman who was found abandoned at a major road in Benin City, Edo State, has been rescued by the Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development while all efforts to locate her family members have been abortive.
The woman, known simply as Madam Esther, was found abandoned along the Airport Road in the state capital and despite announcing the situation on major television stations, no family member has shown up.
According to the ministry, Madam Esther was brought to the ministry by officers of the Edo State Police Command on April 7 this year after she was found abandoned and apparently without anyone to care for her.
Upon her arrival at the ministry, efforts were immediately initiated to trace her family and facilitate her reunion with them.
As part of these efforts, the ministry took her to television stations to publicise her situation and appeal for information from members of the public who might recognise her or know her family.
However, months after the television appeal, no family member or relative has come forward to identify or claim her.
“To ensure her safety, dignity and continued well-being, the ministry subsequently facilitated her placement at Ofure Home for the Elderly, where she is currently receiving care,” the ministry said in a statement on Friday, August 28.
The ministry is therefore appealing to members of the public, traditional and community leaders, religious organisations, residents of Benin City and anyone who may recognise Madam Esther to assist in tracing her family.
“Anyone with information about Madam Esther or her family is urged to contact the Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Benin City,” it added.
