Fear and controversy have trailed the sudden disappearance of a young woman, Blessing Iyobo Akhigbe, from Benin City, Edo State, following allegations that her uncle, a powerful politician, attempted to force her into marriage with a 68-year-old man against her will.

Blessing Akhigbe, born on July 18, 1994, and formerly residing at No. 11, Edigin Street, off Evbuotubu Police Station, reportedly fled her home after weeks of alleged threats and intimidation linked to a planned marriage arrangement.

According to information made available, Blessing is the daughter of the late Mr. Mark Akhigbe and Mrs. Dorcas Akhigbe.

Following her father’s death, she allegedly came under the influence of her uncle, Mr. Philemon Akhigbe, who she claims insisted on marrying her off to an elderly man identified as Pa Michael Osadolor, said to be about 68 years old, old enough to be her father.

Sources said January 14, 2025, had been fixed as the wedding date, despite Blessing’s repeated refusal to consent to the union. Her refusal reportedly angered her uncle, who allegedly threatened to use his “spiritual and physical power” to ruin her life if she failed to comply.

The threats, according to the account, escalated to the point where Blessing feared for her safety and mental well-being.
She was said to have gone into hiding, probably because of her uncle’s threats.

The Edo Police Department is urging anyone with information on Blessing’s whereabouts to call the nearest police station. An investigation is going on about the alleged threat that forced her to an unknown destination.