Publisher of Sahara Reporters and 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) Omoyele Sowore is mourning Ruth Otabor, younger sister of Big Brother Naija winner Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna.
In a post on Facebook on Sunday, the 54-year-old said Ruth’s life was cut short due to what he described as the conduct of Dangote truck drivers.
He wrote, “A sad moment has struck. A beautiful life has been cut short by the cutthroat and irresponsible corporate conduct of Dangote truck drivers.”
The activist went on to commiserate with Phyna and her family.
“BBNaija’s Phyna has announced the passing of her sister, Ruth Otabor. I commiserate deeply with Phyna and the entire Otabor family over this tragic loss of a brilliant graduate whose future was stolen by the recklessness of a Dangote truck driver”, he wrote.
Sowore further argued that Ruth’s death could have been prevented.
He added, “This death was not inevitable—it could have been prevented. It could have been avoided if drivers were properly trained, if Nigeria’s terrible roads were fixed, and if after the accident, there had been timely and humane intervention.”
Reflecting on the larger issues, Sowore said, “Instead, another family is left grieving, another young life wasted, and another reminder is written in blood that Nigeria continues to fail its people while powerful corporations escape accountability.”
He concluded his tribute with a prayer, writing, “May Ruth’s soul rest in peace, and may her death strengthen the call for justice.”
Phyna confirmed her sister’s death in a letter shared on Instagram on Sunday from Eko Solicitors & Advocates.
The statement signed by Justice Segun Ojienoh read, “With a heavy heart the family regrets to announce the passing on to glory of their daughter, sister, mother on this 31st Day of August, 2025 at about 06:30hrs. The family is presently grieving and will appreciate to be given a private moment to mourn the departed.”
Funeral arrangements will be made public later, the family said.
Ruth died after battling injuries sustained in a road crash on August 13 reportedly involving a Dangote truck.
Since the accident, Phyna had repeatedly called out the Dangote Group and government authorities, demanding accountability and support for her sister.
The reality TV star was also engaged in an online dispute with activist VeryDarkMan, who accused her of focusing on financial compensation rather than the plight of other victims of the crash.
Phyna dismissed the allegations, calling him a manipulator.
Her health also drew attention when a photo of her in a hospital bed surfaced online, leading fans to send prayers and messages of support.
Condolence messages have continued to pour in for the Otabor family.
