A cloud of worry has enveloped the family of Gboyega Odubanjo, a 27-year-old award-winning London poet, who disappeared four days ago while attending the Shambala festival in Kelmarsh, Northamptonshire.
Gboyega, known for his kind-hearted nature, was slated to perform at the festival on Saturday morning, but his whereabouts since then have caused deep concern among his loved ones.
Key Details in the Search
Authorities describe Gboyega Odubanjo as standing at 5 feet 6 inches tall, wearing glasses, sporting short black dreadlocks, and a full-face beard.
He was last seen around 4 am on Saturday, clad in a distinctive ensemble consisting of a red and white striped gilet, black clothing underneath, a cream-colored bucket hat, black trousers, and dark shoes.
His family has released a statement with heartfelt appeals for help, expressing their profound worry and seeking any information that could lead to his safe return.
A Loving Soul and an Advocate for Change
Gboyega Odubanjo’s loved ones describe him as a warm and caring individual, adorned with an infectious smile and a heart full of kindness.
He is currently pursuing a PhD in creative writing at the University of Hertfordshire and holds editorial roles at Bad Betty Press and Bath Magg, a poetry magazine.
Gboyega’s creative endeavours have earned him accolades, including the Poetry Business New Poets prize in 2020 for his work “Aunty Uncle Poems.” Notably, his upcoming collection, “Adam,” delves into the concerning issue of inequality in the search for missing black children in the UK.
A Plea for Help and Unity
Tice Cin, Gboyega’s best friend and an acclaimed novelist and filmmaker, emphasized the urgency of finding him. Tice shared, “Gboyega’s latest work is quite poignant because he has always been trying to help change the narrative and make sure this doesn’t happen to people.
He is the light of my life.” Tice called on the community to come together in the search for their beloved friend, emphasizing that the collective effort could bring Gboyega back to safety.
Search Efforts and Future Prospects
As the search for Gboyega Odubanjo continues, Shambala festival, where he was last seen, is collaborating with authorities. Northamptonshire Police are actively investigating the case and pursuing all possible leads in their efforts to locate him.
Have you seen missing man Gboyega, aged 27? He’s been missing since the early hours of Saturday, August 26, having been at @ShambalaFest in Kelmarsh. If you see him, please call us on 999, or if you have information about where he is, please use 101. More: https://t.co/jI4aXhR1VY pic.twitter.com/jy3bi1bjsv
— Northants Police (@NorthantsPolice) August 29, 2023
The family’s appeals for help and the wider community’s dedication to his safe return showcase the power of unity in the face of adversity.
The uncertainty surrounding Gboyega’s disappearance raises concerns not only for his immediate safety but also for the broader issue of ensuring the well-being of individuals in society.
