Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, has accused the Dangote Group of failing to honour its promise to sponsor overseas medical treatment for her younger sister, Ruth.
Ruth was involved in a devastating accident on August 13, 2025, near Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State, when she was reportedly hit by a Dangote truck allegedly driven by an underage, unlicensed driver.
The crash occurred barely six days after she graduated from school, leaving her with catastrophic injuries that led to the amputation of her left leg, while doctors continue to battle to save the right one.
In a series of emotional social media posts on Wednesday, Phyna revealed that she recently visited her sister in person and discovered that Ruth’s condition was “far worse” than she had previously shared publicly.
The reality star explained that in the weeks following the accident, representatives of the Dangote Group assured her that Ruth would be flown to India for advanced medical treatment. However, she claims those assurances have since been walked back.
According to Phyna, Ruth was first moved to Lagoon Hospital in Lagos, where the family was asked to provide a comprehensive medical report. After submitting the documents as requested, Phyna says the company changed its stance, telling her that it would first “seek further medical advice” before making a decision about overseas treatment.
“The situation is too urgent for delays,” Phyna lamented. “Her right leg is at serious risk, and every passing day reduces her chances of full recovery. This is beyond what local hospitals can handle.”
The BBNaija winner disclosed that the company later demanded another document from Lagoon Hospital, this time a formal report declaring that Ruth’s condition could not be managed locally. She claimed that since then, her communication with Dangote Group officials has been met with silence.
“The person I was in touch with from Dangote Group has ignored my messages for more than 24 hours now,” she said, voicing her frustration. “This makes me question their sincerity and commitment to the promise they made. My sister’s life must not be put at risk.”
Phyna has since made a public appeal to Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, urging him to intervene personally to ensure her sister gets the urgent care she needs.
Read Also: Kate Henshaw demands justice for Phyna’s sister after Dangote’s truck accident
Her emotional posts have stirred reactions online, with fans, colleagues, and social commentators expressing outrage over the alleged neglect. Many argued that a conglomerate as wealthy and influential as Dangote Group should be able to swiftly fulfil its obligation, particularly since the accident reportedly involved one of its trucks.
“This isn’t just about money. It’s about accountability and compassion,” one fan wrote under her post. Others called for swift legal action, insisting that corporations must be held responsible for the harm caused by their drivers and vehicles.
Analysts note that if confirmed, the allegation of an underage, unlicensed driver operating a Dangote truck raises serious legal and safety concerns. Nigerian road safety laws prohibit minors and unlicensed individuals from operating heavy-duty vehicles, with violations carrying severe penalties.
Beyond legal responsibility, Phyna’s demand highlights the growing expectation that corporations in Nigeria take full accountability for accidents linked to their operations.
“This case goes beyond philanthropy, it’s about corporate responsibility,” said a Lagos-based human rights lawyer. “If the company promised to facilitate medical care abroad, it must be held to that promise, particularly because the incident involved its truck.”
As of press time, Dangote Group had not publicly responded to Phyna’s allegations. Attempts to reach the company for comment were unsuccessful.
Meanwhile, Ruth remains at Lagoon Hospital in Lagos, battling for recovery while her family waits for clarity. For Phyna, the matter is not just a fight for her sister’s survival but also a test of accountability for one of Africa’s largest corporations.
“Dangote must keep to their word,” she insisted. “My sister deserves a chance at proper treatment and at life.”
