A truck allegedly belonging to the Dangote Group struck Ruth Otabor Bondon, a recent graduate of Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State, leaving her critically injured, sparked widespread outrage and concern on social media.

The internet was thrown into shock on Thursday, August 14, as reports emerged of the accident involving Ruth, who completed her final examinations in the Department of Marketing just six days earlier. Eyewitnesses said the truck driver did not stop after the collision but was later pursued by a lecturer who witnessed the incident. It was also alleged that the truck’s license plate had been removed.

Medical sources indicate that Ruth sustained severe injuries, resulting in the amputation of one leg. Doctors have reportedly expressed concerns that the other leg may also require amputation. She remains in critical condition at a hospital. Family members and students have expressed frustration over being denied access to her by police authorities.

Ruth is the younger sister of Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, a reality TV star and entertainer.

In a live video posted online, Phyna appealed to the Dangote Group to take responsibility and support her sister’s medical treatment and recovery.

“All I want is for Dangote to join me and help my sister because she will be crippled for life,” Phyna said.

“She just graduated. Her dream is cut short. Everything cut short. I was thinking I would be relieved after her graduation, but now…” she broke down in tears.

The incident has reignited public concern over safety issues involving trucks operated by the Dangote Group.

In January 2021, an articulated Dangote truck reportedly lost control and crashed into shops opposite Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), Ondo State, killing at least eight people, including university students. The tragedy plunged the university community into mourning and sparked calls for improved road safety.

At the time of filing this report, the Dangote Group had yet to issue an official statement on the latest incident.

Students, civil society groups, activists, critics, and social media users have called for justice for Ruth, demanding accountability and stricter regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.