The Dangote Group has expressed sadness over the death of Ruth Otabor, younger sister of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, who passed away weeks after being involved in a road accident with one of the company’s trucks near Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State.
In a statement issued shortly after the announcement of her passing on Sunday, the company said, “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ruth Otabor, who was injured in the recent road incident involving one of our trucks in Auchi, Edo State.”
The company explained that since the August 13 accident, its officials and insurance partners had covered Ruth’s medical expenses and provided financial support to the family.
It added that arrangements were already in place to fly her abroad for advanced treatment before her sudden demise.
“Since the accident, our officials and insurance partners have been by her side, covering all financial and medical costs and supporting her family. Arrangements had been made for her to be flown to India for advanced treatment, pending medical clearance from her doctors. Sadly, despite these efforts and Ruth’s brave fight to live, we lost her today,” the Dangote Group stated.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to safety and accountability, while extending condolences to the Otabor family.
“At Dangote Group, safety, accountability, and compassion remain at the core of our operations. We remain committed to strengthening our safety systems and supporting those affected in moments of tragedy. May God grant her mercy and eternal rest,” the statement concluded.
Ruth recently graduated from Auchi Polytechnic. Her death was earlier announced by the family’s lawyers at Eko Solicitors & Advocates.
“With a heavy heart, the family regrets to announce the passing on to the glory of their daughter, sister, and mother on this 31st Day of August, 2025 at about 06:30Hrs,” the statement read.
The family described the tragedy as devastating and appealed for privacy as they mourn, adding that funeral details would be announced later.
Ruth’s death came about two weeks after her involvement in a road crash on August 13, when a Dangote truck crushed her leg near Auchi Polytechnic. Eyewitnesses said a bystander had to intervene to stop the vehicle.
The incident happened just six days after she had graduated from the institution. Ruth underwent an emergency leg amputation at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State, in a bid to save her life.
