Heart of Gold: Dangote Pledges to Aid Phyna’s Injured Sister’s Overseas Medical Care

What began as a tragic road accident in Edo State has evolved into a public showdown between a celebrity and a corporate giant, with a heart-wrenching twist of compassion. The Dangote Group has pledged to provide full medical support and compensation to Ruth Otabor, the sister of reality TV star Phyna, following an accident with one of the company’s trucks that left her with a leg amputation.

The incident, which occurred on August 13, 2025, near Auchi Polytechnic, resulted in severe injuries to Ruth Otabor, who had just graduated from the institution. According to an account shared by her sister, Phyna, the truck’s driver ran over Ruth’s legs, and she was rushed to Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital in Edo State, where one of her legs had to be amputated.

Phyna, who won the BBNaija “Level Up” edition in 2022, took to her social media to condemn the initial response from the company, alleging that they were more concerned with covering up the incident than with the well-being of her sister. Her public outcry sparked outrage online, with many Nigerians joining the call for justice and accountability.

In a recent video that went viral, Phyna was seen in a heated exchange with members of the Dangote Group management. During the confrontation, she vehemently demanded that her sister be taken abroad for medical treatment, specifically to India, arguing that the hospital she was in was not equipped to handle her sister’s injuries. “I am putting my sister as Dangote’s child, because if not, Dangote will not bring his child here; they will fly them abroad,” she said.

The Dangote Group has since responded to the public pressure. In a statement released via its official X account, the company confirmed that its senior officials and insurance team had visited the accident scene and the victim’s family. The statement promised “comprehensive medical care and appropriate compensation, in line with Dangote Group’s welfare policy.” The company also expressed its commitment to working with law enforcement authorities to ensure a transparent investigation.

While the incident is a tragedy, the public engagement has transformed it into a powerful case study on corporate social responsibility. The Dangote Group’s pledge to cover all medical costs, including the potential overseas care, is a significant step towards rebuilding public trust and demonstrating a commitment to the welfare of those affected by its operations.