The pain of losing someone close is a grief that touches everyone differently. But when it’s unexpected, it strikes a much harder blow. On August 31, 2025, Phyna, the winner of Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) Season 7, lost her younger sister, Ruth Otabor, in a tragic accident.
Ruth’s death came as a devastating shock to everyone who knew her, especially to her sister Phyna, who had always spoken highly of her and her supportive role throughout the BBNaija journey. Ruth had just graduated from Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State, Nigeria, on August 7, 2025. Only six days later, she was hit by a truck belonging to the Dangote Group near the school. The impact was so severe that Ruth’s leg was crushed, leading to an amputation. Despite the efforts to save her, Ruth’s health deteriorated, and she passed away on the morning of August 31, 2025.
The news of Ruth’s death spread quickly, leaving many in shock. Ruth was just 23 years old. Her family, who had always been a source of strength for her, was left reeling from the tragedy. The family released a statement expressing their sorrow, asking for privacy during their time of grief. Phyna, understandably heartbroken, shared the news on her social media, asking for prayers and support as she coped with the loss of someone so close to her heart.
Ruth Otabor – A Brief Overview
| Full Name | Ruth Otabor |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | Not publicly disclosed |
| Date of Death | August 31, 2025 |
| Cause of Death | Fatal truck accident involving a Dangote Group vehicle |
| Educational Background | Graduate of Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State |
| Surviving Family | Phyna (sister), other family members |
| Tragic Event | Ruth was hit by a Dangote truck on August 13, 2025, just days after her graduation. She later passed away due to complications from the accident. |
What makes this loss even more painful is that Ruth’s accident occurred just weeks after she graduated, a milestone that should have been celebrated. Instead, her life was tragically cut short. The Dangote Group, whose truck was involved in the accident, expressed condolences and mentioned that they were working to arrange advanced treatment for Ruth in India before her passing. While this gesture showed their concern, the tragic reality remains that Ruth’s death is a painful reminder of how accidents like these can happen unexpectedly, forever changing the lives of those involved.
The loss of Ruth Otabor has not only shaken her family but also her fans, many of whom had followed Phyna’s BBNaija journey and connected with the sisterly bond they shared. Ruth was more than just Phyna’s sister—she was a bright young woman with dreams of her own. The outpouring of love and support for Phyna and her family shows just how much Ruth was loved and how deeply her passing is felt.
The accident has also brought attention to the safety concerns surrounding Nigeria’s roads, particularly with the large trucks that frequently operate throughout the country. Ruth’s death is not just a personal tragedy for her family but a stark reminder that more needs to be done to improve road safety to prevent such senseless loss of life. The Dangote Group, while offering condolences, must face scrutiny over the accident and take responsibility for ensuring better safety standards to protect the public.
As Phyna and her family navigate this heartbreaking loss, it’s important to remember Ruth’s legacy, not just as Phyna’s sister but as a person with her own hopes, dreams, and accomplishments. Though her life was tragically short, her spirit and the impact she had on those around her will not be forgotten. In this time of sorrow, we stand with Phyna and her family, offering our deepest condolences and hoping that they find comfort in the midst of their grief.
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