For Public Attention: Help us reunite 89yr old madam Maria Darwang with family, friends, well wishers – EDSG appeals

Madam Mariana Darwang Photo Credit: EMWASD 

From our Bureau Chief, Benin 

The Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development is seeking the assistance of the general public in tracing the family, relatives, friends, former colleagues and old students of 89-year-old Madam Mariana Darwang, who is currently under the care and protection of the Ministry.

The appeal was made via a press release by the director of media in the Ministry, Daisy Osunde and circulated amongst journalists in Benin on Thursday, 24 September, 2026.

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Madam Darwang has been in the custody of the Ministry since 6th September, 2026, after she was referred by the Edo State Ministry of Health, it was said.

She reportedly had approached the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, appealing for assistance with mobility.

In response, the Edo State Government through the Ministry of Health, provided her with a wheelchair and crutches to support her mobility in demonstration of the government’s commitment to the welfare and dignity of older persons, it was asserted.

Further, it was said that Madam Darwang disclosed she was formerly a teacher at the Immaculate Conception College (ICC), Benin City, where she taught Literature-in-English between 1984 and 1986.

Though a native of Edo State, she claimed to have lost contact with family members.

“The Ministry is therefore appealing to members of the public, former students of ICC, former colleagues, friends, neighbours and anyone who may have known Madam Mariana Darwang to come forward with useful information that could assist in tracing her family or reconnecting her with people from her past.

“Anyone with information concerning Madam Darwang or her family is kindly requested to contact the Edo State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Secretariat Complex, Block C, Ground floor, along Sapele road, Benin City, Edo State.

“Your information could help reconnect an elderly mother and former teacher with her loved ones and those who remember her.”