BBNaija Star Phyna Mourns Sister Ruth Otabor at Burial
Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Ijeoma “Phyna” Otabor, was overcome with emotion as she laid her younger sister, Ruth Bodon Otabor, to rest on September 13, 2025. Ruth, aged 24, died on August 31 from complications following a road accident involving a Dangote truck near Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State.
Final Farewell
The funeral procession moved Ruth’s body from the mortuary in Ikoyi to the family residence in Ikorodu, before the burial took place in Ewuoloye Itasanni, Ogijo, Ogun State.
At the graveside, Phyna, dressed in black, struggled to hold back tears as she gently poured sand into her sister’s grave, a final ritual goodbye. Relatives and former BBNaija housemates, including Christy O and Groovy, were among those consoling her.
Details of the Accident and Aftermath
The accident occurred on August 13, only six days after Ruth’s graduation. She sustained severe injuries, including head trauma and the loss of a leg. Efforts to send her abroad for further treatment were made, but she ultimately succumbed to her injuries on the morning of August 31.
In the wake of Ruth’s death, Phyna called out the Dangote Group, accusing it of shielding those responsible and not taking swift enough action. The family had pushed for justice under the hashtag #JusticeForRuth.
Dangote later responded, stating that the company visited Ruth in hospital, covered her medical expenses, and arranged for advanced medical treatment abroad. They expressed sadness over her passing and extended condolences to the family.
Family’s Response & Public Support
Showing the depth of their grief, the Otabor family requested privacy as they mourned. Phyna, visibly distraught, briefly deactivated her Instagram account as fans and supporters rallied behind her in public displays of sympathy.