The Dangote Group has expressed profound grief and extended heartfelt condolences to the family of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, following the painful demise of her sister, Ruth Otabor.
According to reports, Ruth tragically lost her life weeks after sustaining severe injuries in a road accident involving one of the company’s trucks in the vicinity of Auchi Polytechnic, located in Edo State. The incident, which initially left her battling for survival, has now resulted in one of the most heartbreaking losses connected to the conglomerate’s operations.
In an official statement released shortly after her passing, the Dangote Group described Ruth’s death as a devastating blow and emphasized that the company had been fully committed to supporting her and her loved ones since the unfortunate incident occurred.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ruth Otabor, who was injured in the recent road incident involving one of our trucks in Auchi, Edo State. Her death is a painful loss not only to her family but also to everyone who has followed her recovery journey with hope and prayers,” the statement read.
The company further clarified that, from the time of the accident, its officials and insurance partners had been actively involved in covering all necessary medical and financial expenses. This included the costs of treatment, hospital bills, and additional arrangements for advanced healthcare interventions outside Nigeria.
“Arrangements had already been finalized for her to be flown to India for advanced treatment, pending medical clearance from her doctors. Sadly, despite these extensive efforts and Ruth’s brave and courageous fight for life, we lost her today,” the company lamented in its statement.
Beyond addressing the specific case, the Dangote Group also used the moment to reiterate its broader commitment to safety, accountability, and compassion across all its operations. The company stressed that tragedies such as Ruth’s death underscore the need to continuously improve safety systems and maintain responsibility toward communities impacted by its activities.
“At Dangote Group, safety, accountability, and compassion remain at the core of our operations. We remain committed to strengthening our safety protocols while standing firmly beside those affected in their most difficult moments. Our prayers and deepest sympathies are with the Otabor family at this time of sorrow. May God grant Ruth mercy, eternal rest, and comfort to her loved ones,” the statement concluded.
Ruth’s death was earlier confirmed by Eko Solicitors & Advocates, who issued a formal statement on behalf of the Otabor family, confirming the tragic development and appealing for privacy as the family mourns their irreplaceable loss.