UK Police In Search Of Missing Nigerian Poet

Authorities in the UK are on the lookout for a missing poet who was last seen at a festival where he was scheduled to appear.

Gboyega Odubanjo, 27, went missing over the weekend while visiting the Shambala Festival in Kelmarsh, Northamptonshire.

The poet, who his family describes as ‘kind and caring,’ was last seen around 4 a.m. on Saturday.

Mr Odubanjo, from Bromley in southeast London, was dressed in a red and white striped gilet with black clothing underneath, as well as a cream bucket hat, black trousers, and dark-coloured shoes.

According to Northamptonshire police, Mr Odubanjo is 5ft 6in tall, wears spectacles, has short black dreadlocks, and a full-face beard. Officers are requesting members of the public to contact the force if they have seen him or know where he is.

Mr Odubanjo’s family has expressed “profound concern” for their son’s safety and well-being, claiming that his disappearance is “entirely out of character.”

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In their appeal, they said: “He has a warm and infectious personality, a contagious smile, and a heart full of kindness.’

“We are reaching out to the community, friends, and all compassionate individuals who may have any information that could lead to his safe return. No piece of information is too small, and your help could be the key to bringing him back to us.

“Thank you for taking the time to read our appeal. We pray for Gboyega’s safe return and for the strength to endure this challenging time,” they added.

Mr. Odubanjo received the Poetry Business New Poets Award for his pamphlet Aunty Uncle Poems in 2020, as well as an Eric Gregory award from the Society of Authors.

He is a PhD holder in creative writing at the University of Hertfordshire. He works as an editor for Bad Betty Press and the poetry publication Bath Magg.

“If you see Gboyega, please call Northamptonshire Police on 999,” said Northamptonshire Police. Information and past sightings can also be reported by dialing 101 and referencing MPD1/2619/23.

“Gboyega if you see this appeal, please contact us or your loved ones – we need to make sure you are safe and OK.”