The atmosphere was heavy with grief today as Ruth Otabor, the younger sister of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Phyna, was laid to rest. Her death, which followed a tragic road accident, has left many Nigerians heartbroken and has drawn attention from across the entertainment industry.
Ruth had only recently celebrated her graduation from Auchi Polytechnic before tragedy struck on August 13, 2025. She was hit by a heavy-duty truck, allegedly belonging to the Dangote Group, near the school. The crash left her critically injured, and one of her legs had to be amputated. Despite efforts to save her, her condition worsened and she passed away on Sunday, August 31, at about 6:30 a.m.
Her burial became not just a moment of family mourning but one where colleagues, celebrities, and fans gathered to support Phyna and her family. Public figures such as Nollywood actress Kate Henshaw, BBNaija stars Wanni and Daniella Peters, media personality Hero Daniels, and several others paid their respects and expressed their condolences. Their presence and words of comfort highlighted how deeply Ruth’s passing resonated beyond her immediate family.
In the days following her death, the Dangote Group confirmed the accident and stated that they had covered medical bills and were making arrangements for Ruth to be flown abroad for further treatment before her condition deteriorated. The tragedy, however, has sparked wider conversations about corporate responsibility, road safety, and the need for urgent reforms to prevent similar incidents in the future.
For Phyna and her loved ones, Ruth’s burial is the painful farewell to a sister whose life was cut short just as it was beginning to blossom. For the wider public, it is a reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for accountability on Nigeria’s roads.
As Ruth is laid to rest, her memory lingers as both a symbol of youthful promise and a call for change. May her soul rest in peace, and may her family find the strength to bear this heavy loss.
