Ruth Otabor’s Tragic Accident
Ruth Otabor, younger sister of Big Brother Naija star Phyna (Ijeoma Otabor), has passed away following weeks of treatment struggles after a Dangote truck accident in Edo State.
On August 13, 2025, Ruth, who had just graduated from Auchi Polytechnic six days earlier, was hit by a Dangote Group truck near the school campus. The crash left her with multiple injuries, including a traumatic leg amputation. Witnesses said the truck driver initially fled but was later apprehended by bystanders.
Phyna’s Public Battle for Justice
In the aftermath, Phyna publicly accused the Dangote Group of mishandling the case, claiming her sister’s privacy was violated after photos of her were allegedly taken and shared without the family’s consent.
She also alleged that the company backtracked on its promise to fly Ruth abroad for advanced treatment, sparking widespread debate about corporate responsibility in Nigeria.
Dangote Group’s Response
The Dangote Group acknowledged its truck was involved in the accident and pledged to cover all medical expenses, compensation, and logistics for Ruth’s treatment. Representatives from the company, alongside insurance officials, visited her in the hospital and reportedly began processing her evacuation abroad, pending medical clearance.
Despite these assurances, Phyna insisted that the promised treatment abroad was delayed, adding to the family’s frustrations.
Passing and Public Reactions
Sadly, Ruth died on August 31, 2025, at about 6:30 a.m., according to a statement released by the family’s legal representatives, Eko Solicitors & Advocates.
The Dangote Group later expressed deep sorrow over the loss and reiterated its commitment to supporting the family and prioritizing road safety within its operations.
Meanwhile, the tragedy has sparked widespread mourning across social media, with celebrities including Kate Henshaw and fellow BBNaija alum Wanni sending condolences and prayers to Phyna and her family.
A Broader Debate
The incident has reignited conversations about road safety in Nigeria, the accountability of corporate giants, and the plight of accident victims who often face long delays in accessing promised justice or medical care.
For many, Ruth’s death is not just a personal tragedy but a symbol of Nigeria’s broader struggles with reckless driving, weak enforcement of road safety laws, and lack of timely medical intervention.
