Ruth Otabor, the younger sister of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Ijeoma “Phyna” Otabor, has tragically lost her leg after being hit by a truck reportedly linked to the Dangote Group near Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State.
The heartbreaking accident happened on Wednesday, August 13, 2025—just six days after Ruth celebrated her graduation from Auchi Polytechnic. Eyewitnesses said the heavy-duty truck crushed her leg before it was eventually stopped by a bystander.
Phyna, who became a household name after winning the BBNaija Level Up edition in 2022 and walking away with a ₦100 million grand prize, is now using her influence to demand justice. The reality star accused the company of negligence, vowing not to allow the matter “to be swept under the carpet.”
Social Media Reactions
The incident has sparked outrage online, with Nigerians, fans, and celebrities joining Phyna in calling for accountability.
On X (formerly Twitter), @Yvonne_Godswill wrote:
“Yesterday, Ruth’s life changed forever when a truck driver crushed her legs, leading to amputation. Now, the police want to cover it up. We can’t be silent while negligence and corruption destroy lives. Justice must prevail!”
Another user, @Mbahdeyforyou, added:
“I feel so sad for Phyna. Nobody deserves to go through what she’s facing right now.”
Instagram users also expressed anger. @mariam_ky posted:
“Nigeria, my country, for once make una do the right thing. Justice needs to be served. This is so sad.”
Others pointed to the dangers of commuting in Auchi. @sleeky__ella noted:
“Schooling in Auchi and coming back alive is a great testimony. If you know Auchi very well, you’ll understand how bad it is with those trucks.”
On Facebook, Bapidak Stephen Somshak alleged:
“Most heavy-duty truck drivers don’t have licences; they are conductors turned drivers. I experienced one while helping a family friend relocate to Benue from Abuja.”
Peter Omenye echoed the concern:
“He must be an apprentice driver engaged by the main driver! The practice is very common in Nigeria among trailer and tanker drivers. FRSC is well aware of this practice!”
Chichi Bassey added:
“What a sad incident! How can they hand over a truck to someone without a licence? This is pure negligence.”
Dangote Group Responds
In a statement released on August 14, 2025, the Dangote Group addressed the accident, stating:
“Following the recent road accident in Auchi, Edo State, involving one of our trucks, which sadly resulted in injury to Mrs. Ruth Otabor, senior officials from Dangote Cement Plc, together with our Insurance team, promptly visited the scene, engaged with law enforcement authorities, and visited the victim and her family at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State. This action reflects our unwavering commitment to the well-being of those affected. We are ensuring full support for Mrs. Otabor, including comprehensive medical care and appropriate compensation, in line with Dangote Group’s welfare policy. Our thoughts remain with Mrs. Ruth Otabor and her loved ones, and we wish her a full and speedy recovery.”
Despite the company’s statement, the hashtag #JusticeForRuth continues to trend across social media, with Nigerians urging the authorities to ensure transparency and accountability in handling the case.
