In a remarkable turn of events, two-year-old Excel Forte and her step-sister, Jessica, who vanished from their home in the Akowonjo area of Lagos on November 28, 2023, have been safely found and reunited with their family.
The disappearance of the young sisters left their family, especially their mother, Agnes, in a state of anguish and despair. Agnes, who is visually impaired, was devastated when the girls went missing without a trace while playing just outside their apartment.
The sisters’ disappearance sparked a frantic search across the community and beyond, with family members, neighbors, and local authorities working tirelessly to find any clues to their whereabouts. Months passed with no leads, and hope began to wane as the family faced the reality of not knowing what had become of the young girls.
The breakthrough came unexpectedly when staff at an orphanage in Bariga, a district in Lagos, noticed two young girls matching the sisters’ descriptions. Authorities were quickly alerted, and after thorough verification, it was confirmed that the girls were indeed Excel and Jessica, missing for nearly a full year.
The reunion was an emotional one. For Agnes, who had spent countless days praying for her daughters’ safe return, this moment brought both relief and overwhelming joy. “I never thought I’d hold them again,” she said, her voice filled with gratitude and disbelief. She expressed thanks to everyone who had supported her family throughout the difficult year.
Details surrounding the girls’ year-long absence remain unclear, though officials are now working to piece together their journey and determine how they came to be in the orphanage. Investigations are underway to understand the circumstances of their disappearance and to rule out any criminal activity. The Lagos State Police have also called for anyone with information about the case to come forward, as they continue to work towards securing justice and preventing similar incidents in the future.
This story of resilience and the power of community has resonated deeply with residents of Akowonjo and Bariga, and news of the sisters’ safe return has brought a wave of relief and celebration. Local advocacy groups are calling for increased child safety measures in Lagos neighborhoods to prevent such disappearances from happening to other families.
While the family focuses on reuniting and healing, the community has rallied to provide support, helping Agnes as she transitions from uncertainty back to family life with her beloved daughters. This story stands as a reminder of the importance of vigilance, community collaboration, and hope in the face of adversity.
