Tragedy Strikes as Phyna’s Sister, Ruth Otabor, Passes Away After Accident Involving Dangote Truck

The family of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Phyna, has been thrown into mourning following the passing of her younger sister, Ruth Otabor, who died weeks after a tragic accident involving a Dangote truck.

In a statement released by Eko Solicitors & Advocates, the family confirmed that Ruth passed away on Sunday, August 31, 2025, at about 6:30 a.m.

“With a heavy heart, the family regrets to announce the passing on to glory of their daughter, sister, and mother on this 31st Day of August, 2025 at about 06:30Hrs,” the statement read.

The heartbreaking incident occurred on August 13, 2025, near Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State, just six days after Ruth had joyfully graduated from the institution. She was critically injured when the truck crushed her leg, which later had to be amputated. Despite medical efforts and assurances from Dangote Group — who had accepted responsibility and promised care and compensation — Ruth could not recover from the trauma.

Adding to the pain, Phyna had earlier expressed outrage after some staff of the company allegedly circulated photos of her injured sister without consent. She vowed to continue seeking justice for Ruth, insisting the matter must not be swept under the carpet.

Ruth’s death has since triggered an outpouring of grief, with fans, fellow celebrities, and members of the public expressing condolences while also calling for accountability. The family has asked for privacy during this difficult time, noting that funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.

Opinion:

Ruth’s passing is not just another tragic headline — it is a heartbreaking reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for accountability on Nigeria’s roads. Here was a young woman, full of promise, freshly graduated, and looking forward to the next phase of her life, only for her dreams to be cut short by the recklessness of a heavy-duty truck.

The incident raises uncomfortable but necessary questions about road safety, corporate responsibility, and the treatment of victims in Nigeria. It is commendable that Dangote Group admitted fault and offered support, but true justice must go beyond promises — it must mean action, reform, and ensuring such tragedies are prevented in the future.

For Phyna, this is more than just grief — it is a fight for her sister’s dignity. Her voice, amplified by her platform, reflects the cry of many Nigerian families who suffer similar losses without ever being heard.

As Nigerians, we must stand in solidarity, not only to mourn Ruth but to demand safer roads, stricter regulations, and genuine justice. Ruth’s life should not end in vain; it should spark a change.