Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, has been thrown into mourning following the painful death of her younger sister, Ruth Otabor.
Ruth’s passing comes just weeks after she was involved in a tragic accident with a truck allegedly linked to the Dangote Group in Auchi, Edo State.
The incident occurred on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, near Auchi Polytechnic. It was a particularly heartbreaking timing for Ruth, as she had only recently celebrated completing her studies at the institution—a moment that should have marked the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
Eyewitnesses at the scene recounted how the heavy-duty truck ran into her, leaving her critically injured and fighting for survival.
Ruth was immediately rushed to Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, where doctors made the tough decision to amputate her left leg in a desperate attempt to save her life. Despite the surgery, her condition remained unstable, prompting her transfer to Lagoon Hospital in Lagos for more advanced treatment.
During this period, Phyna made emotional public appeals, calling for her sister to be flown abroad for specialized care, as her family and fans rallied in prayer and support. Unfortunately, despite all efforts, Ruth eventually succumbed to the complications from her injuries.
The news of her passing has left Phyna devastated, with tributes pouring in from fans, colleagues, and well-wishers across social media. Many have expressed their heartbreak over the tragic loss, noting how painful it is for a young woman who had just completed her education to have her life cut short in such a manner.
Adding to the outcry, activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) and some youths in Auchi reportedly staged a protest, blocking Dangote trucks from moving freely around the community. They accused the company of negligence and pointed to the repeated loss of lives caused by reckless truck drivers.
Ruth’s death is not just a personal tragedy for her family but also a painful reminder of the dangers many Nigerian roads continue to pose, especially with heavy-duty trucks.
For Phyna, who only recently celebrated her BBNaija success and continues to build her career, this loss is a devastating blow—one that fans across the country are sharing in as they mourn with her.
