The Nigerian entertainment community and the public are mourning the recent loss of Ruth Otabor, the sister of Phyna, who emerged as the winner of Big Brother Naija Season 7. According to information circulating on social media and several reputable news outlets, Ruth will be laid to rest on Saturday, September 13. The funeral service is scheduled to take place at her family home in Ewuoloye Itasanni, Ikorodu, Ogijo, Ogun State, following the release of her obituary notice online.
In the wake of this heartbreaking loss, a clip shared online depicted Phyna attending the funeral dressed in black and wearing a matching face mask. Several other BBNaija stars were also present, standing in solidarity with their colleague during this difficult period. The shared visuals have deeply resonated with fans and the wider public, encapsulating the gravity and sorrow surrounding Ruth’s passing.
Details from the official obituary report that Ruth’s remains were conveyed from Ebony Mortuary in Ikoyi to her family residence in Ewuoloye Itasanni, bringing family and friends together for a final farewell in the Ogun State community she called home. Ruth is survived by her parents, siblings, and children, who continue to bear the brunt of her untimely passing.
It should be recalled that Ruth’s death occurred on August 31, as reported by multiple outlets. Official confirmation was provided in a statement issued by Eko Solicitors & Advocates on behalf of the Otabor family, which was subsequently shared by Phyna across her social media platforms. This public acknowledgment allowed fans, well-wishers, and the wider entertainment community to pay their respects and offer condolences.
Tragically, Ruth’s passing comes only a short time after she was involved in a serious accident, highlighting the unpredictability and fragility of life.
Credit: unusualphyna
Source: Instagram
According to reports, on August 13, 2023, Ruth Otabor was struck by a truck, which reportedly belonged to the Dangote Group. The accident took place near Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State, just six days after Ruth had celebrated her graduation from the same institution. The impact of the accident resulted in critical injuries, necessitating the amputation of Ruth’s leg. Sadly, despite the best efforts of medical professionals, Ruth succumbed to her injuries weeks later, a loss that sent shockwaves across student, entertainment, and local communities alike.
https://www.instagram.com/ebosshair/reel/DOiWOIhCEwn/
and obituary from Phyna’s late sister’s burial in Ogun state is below:
Comments about Phyna’s sister’s burial
Ruth Otabor’s passing has drawn heartfelt reactions from netizens and BBNaija fans, reflecting the deep sense of community and empathy characteristic of Nigerians and West Africans in times of grief. Social media has been awash with condolences, prayers, and tributes expressing solidarity with the Otabor family. Many followers took to Instagram and other platforms to share memories of Ruth, encourage Phyna, and highlight the unpredictability of life.
Some of these emotional messages are highlighted below, as captured from notable online posts:
Read
https://www.instagram.com/p/DOid6mljRmn/
below:
ivyofficial26 said:
“This is so saddened my condolences to the family ,may the good lord grant them the fortitude to bear this loss.”
smart_dominic1 reacted:
“I pray the good Lord continue to give you the fortitude to bear this !! Stay strong Phyna This is too sad !May your sister Rest in Peace.”
pearl__hair_line said:
“This is so sad I pray for strength for the family.”
baby474080 commented:
“Groovy did well by standing by her thorough this hard time
iam.lolo_ wrote:
“The pain of losing a sibling you grow up with, especially the one you are very close to, is unbearable I won’t lie may her soul rest in peace.”
teeto__olayeni reacted:
“Sending Phyna and her family all the love and prayers at this time and always May life be kind to Phyna going forward.”
sis_miracle commented:
“When i lost my sister na everydey I dey cry to one year ,I nearly run mad,some people will not understand the pain.”
ifeoma_nwalozie reacted:
“Just watch how they will still drag her even with this black clothes she’s putting on,just wait and see how heartless some people on this space is.”
hey_its_me_sarima said:
“I thought they’re from Edo state?”
Phyna’s late sister to be immortalised
In the wake of Ruth’s passing, the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) has reportedly issued a statement expressing their condolences and announcing plans to honour Ruth Otabor’s memory. According to the statement, the Association is actively working to support the Otabor family as they deal with this harrowing period, and is also making arrangements to ensure Ruth’s remarkable life and resilience are not forgotten.
NAPS further disclosed their intention to immortalise Ruth at Auchi Polytechnic, the very institution where she completed her studies. While precise details regarding the form this memorial will take have yet to be announced, the move is widely deemed a fitting tribute to a young woman whose life, though brief, left a lasting impact on those around her.
This gesture echoes broader trends in Nigerian and West African educational communities, where notable students or alumni who have distinguished themselves or endured significant hardships are remembered through awards, scholarships, or monuments. In Ruth’s case, such a memorial could inspire current and future polytechnic students to strive for excellence, resilience, and compassion, mirroring the virtues associated with her legacy.
Beyond institutional recognition, the widespread support and sympathy extended to the Otabor family demonstrate the deep cultural importance placed on communal mourning, togetherness, and the celebration of life—even in difficult moments. Across Nigeria, Ghana, and other parts of West Africa, support networks are activated in times of loss, mobilizing prayers, social support, and collective memory to help families navigate grief.
Ruth’s story also brings to light the growing need for improved road safety and stronger support systems for accident victims in Nigeria. According to World Health Organization (WHO) statistics, Nigeria ranks among countries with high road traffic accident fatalities, a situation that has prompted government agencies and advocates to call for better enforcement of road safety rules and improved emergency response measures. For families like the Otabors, policy improvements and community awareness are critical to preventing future tragedies.
For those following the case from Ghana and other countries, Ruth’s passing serves as an important reminder of the shared challenges facing young Africans across the continent—from road safety to access to medical care—and the significance of social unity during periods of hardship.
As the Otabor family and the larger community bid farewell to Ruth, the lasting message is one of resilience, compassion, and communal support. The outpouring of love, both online and in person, stands as testimony to the enduring bonds uniting West Africans even in the face of unimaginable loss.
How do you think institutions, communities, or individuals should support families facing unexpected tragedies in our society? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and remember to follow us for similar updates and heartwarming stories from across Nigeria and beyond.
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