Society Gist
Otinosa Williams
Ruth Otabor, who had undergone an emergency leg amputation following the incident near Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State, succumbed to her injuries on Sunday morning. She passed away around 6:30 a.m., according to a family statement released through Eko Solicitors & Advocates.
“With a heavy heart, the family regrets to announce the passing to glory of their daughter, sister, and mother on this 31st day of August, 2025,” the statement read. The family further appealed for privacy as they grieve, noting that funeral arrangements will be communicated in due time.
Family sources confirmed that representatives of Dangote Group were promptly contacted after her passing and later retrieved her remains from the hospital for transfer to a mortuary. The company, which had earlier taken responsibility for her medical bills, is also expected to cover burial expenses.
“She was very cheerful and loving. We used to call her Bobo,” a grieving relative recalled, describing Ruth as someone whose warmth and affection endeared her to family and friends.
Eyewitnesses of the crash said the heavy-duty truck crushed Ruth’s leg before it was eventually stopped by a bystander. While her sister Phyna had publicly called for her evacuation abroad for treatment, Ruth remained in local care under the supervision of the company’s representatives until her death.
Dangote Group, in a statement issued earlier, acknowledged the accident, confirming that its team had engaged with law enforcement and the family while pledging medical and welfare support in line with its corporate policy.
The incident has drawn widespread sympathy, with many Nigerians expressing condolences to Phyna and her family over the tragic loss.
