Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, has deactivated her Instagram account following the tragic death of her younger sister, Ruth Otabor.
Ruth, who had just graduated from Auchi Polytechnic on August 7, was involved in a ghastly accident on August 13 when a Dangote cement truck rammed into her near the school.
She sustained severe injuries that led to the amputation of one of her legs.
The Dangote Group immediately acknowledged responsibility for the crash, covering Ruth’s medical expenses and promising further assistance.
In a statement at the time, the company said it was “deeply saddened by the unfortunate incident” and pledged “to stand by the Otabor family throughout this difficult time.”
Despite weeks of treatment, Ruth died on August 31, 2025, at about 6:30 a.m. A statement issued by the family’s lawyers, Eko Solicitors & Advocates, confirmed her passing:
“With deep sorrow, we announce the demise of Miss Ruth Otabor, who passed away as a result of the injuries sustained in the accident. The family requests privacy as they grieve this painful loss.”
In the wake of the tragedy, Phyna has come under intense public scrutiny. She was recently criticized on social media after allegedly making financial appeals to Aliko Dangote, with some accusing her of being “greedy.” However, others defended her, saying she was only trying to seek help during her sister’s crisis.
Following the online backlash and the heavy toll of her sister’s death, Phyna quietly deactivated her Instagram account on September 2. A family friend told reporters: “Phyna is devastated.
She has been trying to stay strong, but the loss of her sister, combined with the things being said online, has been overwhelming. She just needs time away from the spotlight to heal.”
