Concern has spread across Lagos after a woman believed to be suffering from memory loss was found wandering along the busy Lagos–Badagry Expressway, raising fears about her safety and that of her children.
The woman was reportedly discovered at Iyana Era, a bustling area along the highway, appearing confused and unable to clearly identify herself. A video of her condition, which surfaced on Wednesday, has since gone viral on social media, drawing sympathy from Nigerians and prompting calls for urgent help.
Eyewitnesses said the woman looked disoriented and distressed, struggling to communicate basic details about her identity or where she was coming from. Some residents who gathered around her expressed concern that she might have lost her memory due to severe stress or a mental health condition.
The widely shared video shows the woman sitting by the roadside, surrounded by onlookers trying to speak with her. However, her responses appeared unclear, adding to fears that she may not be in a stable mental state.
Many Nigerians who watched the clip took to social media to express worry, with some urging authorities to act quickly before the situation worsens. Others called on good-spirited individuals nearby to offer immediate assistance.
The Lagos–Badagry Expressway is one of the busiest routes in Lagos, linking several communities and serving as a major gateway to neighbouring areas. With heavy traffic and constant movement of people, experts say it is not a safe place for a vulnerable person to remain unattended.
Reacting to the incident, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan called on the Lagos State Government and relevant agencies to take immediate action.
In a statement shared via Instagram, the senator described the situation as “heartbreaking” and stressed the need for urgent care and protection for the woman.
“My attention has been drawn to a woman reportedly stranded at Iyana Era, off the Lagos–Badagry Expressway, who appears to have lost her memory, possibly due to severe stress-induced mental health distress,” she said.
She urged authorities to ensure the woman receives proper medical attention and is taken to a safe place where she can be properly cared for.
Beyond the woman’s immediate condition, the senator also raised concerns about her children, suggesting that they might be missing or left unattended.
“I call on the Lagos State Government, relevant agencies, and compassionate members of the public to swiftly intervene, ensure she receives proper care, and secure the safety of her children,” she added.
She stressed that while efforts are being made to help the woman, equal attention must be given to locating and protecting her children.
The mention of children has added urgency to the situation, with many Nigerians expressing fear that they could be exposed to danger if left alone.
In a separate post, Akpoti-Uduaghan announced a cash reward of N500,000 for anyone who can quickly locate the woman and her children.
“₦500k for whoever locates this woman and her children within three hours today. I can’t imagine her babies sleeping out in the dangerous streets,” she wrote.
She also provided details of the woman’s last known location and asked anyone who finds her to share a video confirming her safety.
The reward offer has further increased public interest in the case, with many people sharing the information in hopes of helping locate the woman and her family.
As of the time of filing this report, the Lagos State Government had not issued any official statement regarding the incident.
This has led to some criticism from members of the public, who believe that authorities should respond more quickly in situations involving vulnerable individuals.
However, sources say relevant agencies, including social welfare services and law enforcement, may already be making efforts behind the scenes to locate and assist the woman.
The incident has also brought attention to the growing issue of mental health in Nigeria. Experts say stress, economic hardship, and lack of access to proper healthcare can contribute to conditions that affect memory and behaviour.
In many cases, individuals suffering from mental health challenges are left without adequate support, often ending up on the streets where they face further risks.
Health professionals note that memory loss can be caused by several factors, including trauma, stress, or underlying medical conditions. They stress the importance of early intervention and proper care.
Since the video emerged, many Nigerians have shown concern and willingness to help. Social media users have shared the clip widely, hoping someone who knows the woman will come forward.
Some have also called on non-governmental organisations and community groups to step in and provide immediate assistance.
“This is a situation that requires urgent action,” a Lagos resident said. “Anyone could be in that condition. We need to help her before something bad happens.”
Others have urged people in the Iyana Era area to keep an eye out for the woman and report any sightings to authorities.
They say coordinated efforts between government agencies, healthcare providers, and the public are needed to ensure the woman is found and given proper care.
As efforts continue to locate and assist the woman, many Nigerians are hoping for a positive outcome.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and the need for stronger systems to protect vulnerable individuals.
For now, attention remains on Iyana Era and surrounding areas, as concerned citizens, authorities, and volunteers work to find the woman and ensure she and her children are safe.