Amanze ChinonyeThe Dangote Group has pledged full medical care and compensation after a devastating accident on the Auchi–Benin highway in Edo State left Ms. Ruth Otabor, younger sister of reality TV star Josephina “Phyna” Otabor, fighting for her life. The crash, which happened on Wednesday, involved one of the company’s cement trucks and has since sparked a nationwide outcry.
Ruth, who had graduated from Auchi Polytechnic barely six days earlier, suffered life-altering injuries when the truck rammed into her near the school gate. The impact led to the amputation of one leg at the pelvic level, while her other leg, head, and hand sustained severe wounds. Witnesses say the truck driver sped away without stopping until a pursuing lecturer intercepted him, with disturbing reports alleging that the vehicle’s number plate was later removed before being taken into police custody.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelPublic attention on the case intensified after Phyna released an emotional video accusing the company of prioritising damage control over her sister’s welfare.
“From all that has happened, you decided to tell the Nigerian police to remove the plate number on the truck that crushed my sister… What happened to seeing my sister first? Na money you get, you no be God. But my God is bigger. Enough is enough,” she said, calling for justice and adequate care.
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Her outrage was echoed by veteran actress Kate Henshaw, who wrote:
“This @DangoteGroup truck in police custody in Auchi has hit a young girl who just graduated 6 days ago. The driver didn’t stop. He was chased down by an eyewitness lecturer who went after him. The license plate has been removed. Police are refusing the family n students access… One leg amputated already & the other one may soon be amputated as well… Whoever owns the truck should own up. Calling on @PoliceNG @BenHundeyin to make sure justice is served.”
Social media activist VeryDarkMan also weighed in, criticising what he described as misplaced priorities in the aftermath of the crash:
“This girl is fighting for her life, yet all the energy is going into protecting the truck and its driver instead of seeking justice.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, Dangote Cement Plc confirmed the accident and said senior officials, alongside its insurance team, had visited the scene, met with law enforcement authorities, and later visited Ruth and her family at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital.
“We are ensuring full support for Mrs. Otabor, including comprehensive medical care and appropriate compensation, in line with Dangote Group’s welfare policy,” the statement read.
The company’s response comes amid growing calls from the public and civil society for transparency and accountability in the handling of the case. Many are urging law enforcement to ensure the driver and vehicle remain in custody until a thorough investigation is concluded.
As Ruth battles for recovery, the incident has renewed conversations about heavy-duty truck safety on Nigerian highways and the need for stricter corporate accountability when such accidents occur.
Amanze Chinonye is a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria. With a unique voice that blends tradition with modernity, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday Nigerian life, from the bustling markets of Lagos to the quiet villages of the countryside. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
