Sunday, August 31, was a black day for the family of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor,popularly known as Phyna.
Her younger sister, Ruth Otabor, passed away weeks after surviving a road crash involving a Dangote truck in Auchi, Edo State.
Ruth, who only recently graduated from Auchi Polytechnic, had one of her legs amputated from the pelvic area after the August 13 crash. She also suffered severe injuries on her other leg, hand, and head.
Despite medical intervention and promises of support from the Dangote Group, she succumbed to her injuries in the early hours of Sunday at about 6:30 a.m.
In a statement issued by Eko Solicitors & Advocates on behalf of the Otabor family and shared by Phyna on her Instagram page, the family confirmed Ruth’s death, describing it as “a monumental loss” and appealing for privacy as they mourn.
Also Read: Phyna accuses Dangote of slow motion on Ruth
Following the crash, Dangote Cement Plc had dispatched senior representatives and insurers to the hospital where Ruth was admitted.
The company pledged to cover her medical treatment and cooperate with law enforcement investigating the incident.
News of Ruth’s passing sent shockwaves across social media, with Nigerians expressing grief, anger, and frustration over repeated incidents involving heavy-duty trucks.
On X a user, @Oluwanifemi__, wrote:
“So heartbreaking. This girl fought so hard after losing her leg, only to lose her life in the end. Dangote trucks are turning into death traps on Nigerian roads.”
Another user, @Iam_kaycee, posted:
“My condolences to Phyna and her family. But beyond condolences, we need action. How many more lives must be lost before something is done about these reckless truck drivers?”
On Instagram, a follower commented under Phyna’s post:
“This is really sad. She didn’t even get to enjoy life after school. May her soul rest in peace.”
Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw, who had earlier called for justice after Ruth’s leg was amputated, also mourned the death, writing:
“This is devastating. My heart goes out to Phyna and her family. We cannot keep losing innocent lives to carelessness on our roads.”
Ruth’s death has reignited debates about road safety and accountability in Nigeria.
Road transport analysts note that Dangote trucks have been involved in several fatal crashes in the past, sparking calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations and driver training.
While funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon, the family maintains that it will continue to press for accountability even as it grieves the untimely death of their daughter.
For Phyna, who has been vocal since the accident, this marks a painful chapter as she faces not just the loss of her sister, but also the struggle to ensure that her death does not become just another statistic in Nigeria’s recurring road tragedies.
Crediblenewsng.com
