Mercy Eke Mourns Phyna’s Sister Ruth: “Who Knows What Could Have Been If Dangote Had Embraced Her As Their Own” – Calls for Corporate Accountability Amid Tragic Loss
– In a heartfelt tribute that’s resonating across social media, BBnaija Mercy Eke has reacted to the devastating death of Ruth Otabor, the younger sister of fellow reality star Phyna, lamenting the missed opportunities for intervention by the Dangote Group. Eke, often hailed as the “Queen of Highlights” for her grace under pressure, shared her sorrow online, stating, “Who knows what could have been if Dangote Group had listened and embraced Ruth as their own?” – a poignant variation of the quote circulating among fans, underscoring her wish that the industrial giant had treated Ruth like family from the start. The statement has amplified calls for justice and corporate responsibility, as the nation grapples with the aftermath of the fatal accident that claimed the life of the 21-year-old recent graduate.
Ruth Otabor’s tragic passing on August 31, 2025, at approximately 6:30 a.m., came just weeks after a horrific road accident on August 13 near Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State. The incident involved a Dangote Cement truck that crushed her leg, leading to an above-the-knee amputation and severe complications, including damage to her chest, pelvis, reproductive organs, and lungs. Despite being transferred to Lagoon Hospital in Lagos for advanced care, Ruth succumbed to her injuries while on life support, leaving behind two young children and a grieving family. Phyna, real name Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, confirmed the news through her family’s lawyers, Eko Solicitors & Advocates, urging the public to respect their privacy as funeral arrangements are finalized.
Mercy Eke, 32, who has maintained a close bond with Phyna from their BBNaija days, posted her reaction on Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), where it quickly garnered thousands of likes and shares. “I only wish Dangote Group had listened and embraced Ruth as their own,” Eke wrote, echoing sentiments of regret over the company’s delayed response. Her words highlight the public outcry that followed Phyna’s initial pleas for help, where she accused Dangote of reneging on promises to airlift Ruth to India for specialist treatment. Eke’s post, accompanied by a somber photo of Ruth, has sparked a wave of solidarity from the BBNaija community, with fans trending #JusticeForRuth and #RIPRuthOtabor. “Mercy speaking facts! If they acted faster, Ruth might still be here,” one supporter commented, while another added, “Corporate giants need to step up – this is heartbreaking.”
The Dangote Group, Africa’s largest conglomerate, issued a statement on Sunday evening expressing “deep sadness” over Ruth’s death and claiming they had covered all medical and financial costs since the accident. They revealed that arrangements were finalized to fly her to India for advanced treatment, pending medical clearance, but tragically, she passed before it could happen. “At Dangote Group, safety, accountability, and compassion remain at the core of our operations,” the statement read, pledging to strengthen safety systems. However, critics, including content creator Izzy Ogbeide, have called for a class-action lawsuit against the company, citing similar unreported incidents involving their trucks. The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) also mourned Ruth, announcing intensified training for Dangote and other heavy truck operators to prevent future tragedies.
Phyna, still reeling from the loss and her earlier fallout with activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) over the case, has remained largely silent since the announcement, focusing on family. Earlier, she had mobilized public support via social media, demanding accountability and even threatening protests if justice wasn’t served. Bobrisky, the controversial socialite, weighed in last week, criticizing Phyna’s decision to involve VDM, saying it “spoiled the case” similar to the Mohbad saga. Now, with Eke’s emotional call-out, the conversation has shifted toward systemic issues like road safety and corporate negligence in Nigeria, where heavy trucks from conglomerates like Dangote are often implicated in fatal accidents.
Eke’s tribute not only honors Ruth – described by Phyna as a vibrant mother and fresh graduate – but also reignites debates on how influential figures can drive change. “Ruth’s story is a wake-up call for all of us,” Eke added in her post, calling on Nigerians to prioritize empathy and swift action in crises. As condolences pour in from celebrities like Kate Henshaw and 2Baba, the Otabor family prepares for burial, with Phyna’s fans, the “Phynation,” vowing to support her through this ordeal.
This incident underscores the vulnerabilities on Nigerian roads, where the FRSC reports thousands of deaths annually from truck-related crashes. Will Dangote’s promises translate to real reforms? For now, the entertainment world unites in grief, with Eke’s words serving as a powerful reminder: listening early could save lives.