The glow of celebration has turned into deep mourning for reality TV star Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, winner of Big Brother Naija Season 7.
Her family has been thrown into grief following the untimely death of her younger sister, Ruth Otabor, who lost her life on August 31, 2025, at about 6:30 a.m.
According to a statement released through Eko Solicitors & Advocates and shared on Phyna’s Instagram, Ruth had been battling for survival after a harrowing accident involving a Dangote Group truck earlier in the month.
The tragedy struck on August 13, 2025, just six days after Ruth celebrated her graduation from Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State. The truck collision left her with catastrophic injuries, including an amputated leg, severe head trauma, and damage to her hands. For over two weeks, Ruth fought valiantly on life support but succumbed to her injuries, leaving her family and loved ones devastated.
Phyna, visibly shaken, transformed her grief into a public call for justice and accountability. She accused the Dangote Group of failing to keep their word on arranging advanced overseas medical treatment for Ruth, while also condemning the circulation of her sister’s images online without consent.
Her outcry struck a chord across Nigeria, sparking nationwide sympathy and outrage. Fans, activists, and fellow celebrities have rallied around the Otabor family, demanding better road safety regulations and corporate responsibility in the wake of the tragedy.
As condolences continue to pour in, the family has urged the public to respect their privacy during this painful period. Funeral details, they confirmed, will be announced at a later date.
