The Otabor family has been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of Ruth Otabor, elder sister to Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Phyna. Ruth passed away on August 30, 2025, after battling for her life for more than two weeks following a devastating accident involving a truck allegedly owned by the Dangote Group.
The incident occurred on August 13 near Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State, where Ruth had just graduated. Eyewitnesses say Ruth was riding on a motorcycle near the school’s premises when a Dangote truck, reportedly driven by an underage and unlicensed driver, collided with the bike, crushing her left leg and leaving her critically injured.
The accident, which happened only days after her graduation, turned a moment of celebration into a nightmare for her family. Ruth was rushed to a local hospital and later transferred to a facility in Benin for advanced care. Medical professionals recommended urgent treatment abroad due to the complexity of her injuries.
In response, Phyna took to social media to raise awareness and appeal for support, urging the Dangote Group to fulfill its promise to sponsor Ruth’s medical evacuation. In a message shared by the company’s representatives, they stated: “We are happy your family are also liaising with the medical team handling Ruth. Please note that we are ready to positively consider all options necessary for treatment of Ruth as soon as she is certified fit to travel.”
Despite these assurances, Ruth’s condition deteriorated rapidly, and she died before the arrangements could be finalized. Her death was formally confirmed in a public statement issued by EKO Solicitors & Advocates, who represented Ruth until her passing. The announcement read: “Ruth Otabor is the elder sister to Phyna (BBN Winner Season 7) who lost her life after being hit by a truck.
Related: Phyna Demands Justice After Sister Is Crushed By Alleged Dangote Truck
Her family regrets to announce her sudden death… We ask that the general public respect the privacy of the family as they mourn the loss of their beloved daughter and sister.” Funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
Phyna, who had been vocal throughout her sister’s medical ordeal, previously thanked supporters for their solidarity, writing: “Thank you to everyone that lend their voice. We pray they keep to it. We will not forget to update you all my helpers.” Since Ruth’s passing, Phyna has remained silent, and fans have flooded social media with tributes, prayers, and calls for accountability.
The death of Ruth Otabor has sparked renewed conversations about road safety, corporate responsibility, and the need for stricter regulations on heavy-duty vehicles operating in residential and school zones. Friends and classmates described Ruth as brilliant, kind-hearted, and full of promise, a young woman whose future was stolen in an instant.
As the Otabor family prepares for her burial, the nation mourns alongside them, united in grief and the hope that justice will be served. May Ruth’s soul rest in peace.
