Dangote Group Addresses Phyna’s Allegations Over Sister’s Injury

The Dangote Group has issued a statement following claims by Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, that one of its trucks was involved in an accident that left her younger sister severely injured.

Phyna, on Wednesday, August 13, alleged that the company was attempting to protect the driver and truck involved. She said the police removed the vehicle’s licence plate on the company’s instruction and criticised a manager for planning to visit the police station before seeing her sister.

In a post on Instagram, she warned that she would resist any move to release the truck or driver, adding, “You may have money, but you are not God. My God is greater. Enough is enough.”

Actress Kate Henshaw also commented on the situation, sharing a video of the truck said to be in police custody. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), she claimed the driver initially tried to escape but was pursued by a lecturer who witnessed the crash. She further alleged that the victim—who had just graduated six days earlier—had already lost one leg, while the other might also require amputation. Henshaw called on the police to ensure justice was served.

In a statement posted on its official X account on Thursday, the Dangote Group confirmed the truck’s involvement and identified the victim as Ruth Otabor. The company said senior officials from Dangote Cement Plc and its insurance representatives visited the accident scene, met with law enforcement, and checked on the victim and her family at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State.

“Following the road accident in Auchi, Edo State, involving one of our trucks, we are committed to providing Mrs. Ruth Otabor with complete medical care and appropriate compensation, in accordance with our welfare policy,” the statement said. “We wish her a swift and full recovery.”