The family of Ruth Otabor, sister of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner Phyna, is grieving following her tragic death on Sunday. Ruth died after suffering serious injuries from a road accident involving a Dangote Cement truck in Auchi, Edo State.
The news of Ruth’s passing was confirmed by her family on Sunday, sending shockwaves through the entertainment and public communities in Nigeria. The young woman had been battling for her life after the accident, which led to the amputation of her legs before she eventually succumbed to her injuries.
In a statement released on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the Dangote Group expressed deep sadness over Ruth’s death and extended condolences to her family. The company also addressed claims made by Phyna that Dangote had failed to fulfill promises to fly her sister abroad for advanced medical treatment.
The Dangote Group stated that arrangements were already in progress to fly Ruth to India for further treatment, pending medical clearance from her doctors. This was part of the company’s ongoing efforts to support Ruth and her family after the accident.
“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 statement said.
“On behalf of the entire Dangote Group, we extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and loved ones at this difficult time.
“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.”
Ruth Otabor’s death follows a serious accident when a Dangote Cement truck crushed her on a road in Auchi, Edo State. The impact of the accident was so severe that doctors were forced to amputate her legs. Despite the efforts to save her, she passed away on Sunday.
The accident and Ruth’s death have raised concerns about road safety and the operations of heavy trucks on Nigerian roads. Families and victims of road accidents often face long battles to access proper care, making timely treatment crucial in such situations.
Phyna, the reality TV star and Ruth’s sister, had earlier criticized Dangote Group, accusing the company of failing to fulfill its promise to fly Ruth abroad for treatment. This allegation added tension to an already emotional and tragic situation.
However, Dangote Group’s statement clarified that the company was working with medical professionals and had made plans for Ruth’s transfer to India for advanced care, subject to medical approval. This support included covering all medical bills and working closely with the family.
The Dangote Group is one of Nigeria’s largest conglomerates, with extensive investments in cement production, oil and gas, and other sectors. The company often responds swiftly to incidents involving its operations, balancing corporate responsibility with public relations.
This latest incident shines a light on the dangers faced by pedestrians and motorists due to accidents involving heavy vehicles on Nigerian highways. It also brings to focus the challenges families face in getting proper medical care following serious injuries.
Ruth’s death has been met with an outpouring of sympathy from fans, friends, and well-wishers. Many Nigerians have expressed condolences to Phyna and her family, recognizing the pain of losing a loved one under such tragic circumstances.
As the family mourns, questions remain about how to prevent similar tragedies in the future. Calls for stricter road safety measures, better truck regulations, and more efficient emergency medical services have gained renewed urgency.
This incident also highlights the fragile state of Nigeria’s healthcare system, where advanced medical treatments abroad remain the best option for severe cases, but access can be complicated and delayed.
For now, the focus remains on comforting the Otabor family and remembering Ruth as they deal with their loss.
