Tears Flow As BBNaija Star Phyna Announces The Tragic Passing Of Her Sister Ruth

The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning as news of the tragic passing of Ruth Otabor, the sister of Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Josephine Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, was formally announced to the public. The devastating news was made official through a public statement released by Eko Solicitors & Advocates on behalf of the Otabor family, confirming that Ruth passed away on the 31st of August, 2025, at approximately 6:30 a.m. The announcement, which came in the early hours of the day, immediately sent shockwaves across social media platforms, where fans of Phyna and sympathizers began to pour out heartfelt condolences to the grieving family. The statement signed by Justice Segun Ojienoh, acting on behalf of the family, emphasized that the Otabor household is currently overwhelmed with grief and deeply pained by the untimely death of their daughter, sister, and mother. It further appealed to the public and the media for privacy during this difficult period, while assuring that funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course once the family has had the strength to finalize plans.

Phyna, who rose to fame after emerging winner of Big Brother Naija Level Up edition in 2022, has often spoken fondly about her family and the close-knit bond she shares with them, making the loss of Ruth even more heartbreaking for her fans and well-wishers. While details surrounding the exact cause of Ruth’s death have not yet been revealed, the tone of the announcement made it clear that the family is still processing the shocking event and grappling with the reality of such a painful loss. For Phyna, whose life has been under the spotlight since her big win on the reality show, this tragedy comes as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, and it has stirred an outpouring of love and empathy from across the country and beyond. Fans have taken to her social media pages to express their condolences, sharing prayers, comforting words, and messages of strength, urging her to stay strong in the face of adversity.

The news has also drawn reactions from fellow BBNaija housemates, celebrities, and industry colleagues who have expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with Phyna. Many of them have posted tributes to Ruth, while others have shared words of encouragement to the Otabor family, reminding them that they are not alone in this dark hour. The hashtag #PrayForPhyna began trending shortly after the announcement, as thousands of Nigerians joined voices to sympathize with the reality star and her family. Some fans also noted that the timing of the loss is particularly painful as it comes at a point when Phyna has been focused on building her career, growing her fan base, and solidifying her place in the entertainment industry.

Ruth, though not as publicly known as her sister, was described by those close to the family as a kind-hearted and loving individual who played a significant role in holding her family together. For many who knew her personally, her death is not just the passing of a relative of a celebrity, but the departure of a woman who touched lives with her warmth and genuine nature. As news of her death continues to spread, tributes have poured in not just from Phynation—the loyal fan base of Phyna—but also from members of the general public who recognize the weight of losing a beloved sister, daughter, and mother.

The atmosphere around Phyna’s usually vibrant online presence has shifted dramatically, as fans have observed her silence since the news broke. Known for her bubbly and outspoken personality, the quietness from the reality TV star has only highlighted the depth of her grief. Friends and fans have repeatedly called on the public to respect her privacy and avoid insensitive speculations, echoing the request made in the family’s official statement. Social media, which often thrives on rumors and gossip, has instead been filled with an unusual level of sobriety and compassion, as people reflect on the unpredictability of life and the shared human experience of loss.

The announcement of Ruth’s passing has also triggered conversations about the immense pressures public figures face when they lose loved ones, as they often have to deal with personal pain while under the watchful eyes of fans and the media. For Phyna, the expectation to remain strong despite her grief is compounded by her celebrity status, but supporters have been vocal in encouraging her to take all the time she needs to heal. Messages such as “Phyna, please stay strong, we are praying for you” and “May God comfort the Otabor family” continue to flood the internet, reflecting the collective heartbreak that many feel on her behalf.

In moments like this, the bond between celebrities and their supporters becomes more evident, as fans not only celebrate the wins of their favorite stars but also share in their pains and tragedies. Phyna, who has built a reputation for being real, raw, and unapologetically herself, has cultivated a fan base that sees her as more than just an entertainer but as someone they deeply connect with on a human level. It is this connection that has made Ruth’s death resonate so profoundly among her followers, many of whom are mourning alongside the Otabor family as though they had lost one of their own.

As the Otabor family navigates this period of grief, the nation watches with compassion, offering thoughts, prayers, and condolences. While the pain of losing Ruth will linger for a long time, the overwhelming love and support pouring in from all corners of the world may provide some measure of comfort to the family in their darkest hour. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days, and it is anticipated that many fans, friends, and colleagues of Phyna will turn out in solidarity to pay their final respects to Ruth.

For now, the Otabor family has asked for the gift of privacy as they mourn, reflecting on the life of a loved one gone too soon. In the words of many who have spoken since the announcement, Ruth may be gone, but her memory will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who knew her. The tragedy underscores the reality that life is fleeting, and every moment with loved ones should be cherished.

As Nigeria mourns with Phyna, one truth stands clear: in times of grief, the strength of community and shared humanity shines brightest. Ruth’s passing has become a moment of reflection not just for the Otabor family but for everyone touched by the story, reminding us all of the need to value life, family, and the bonds that tie us together.