By Chiagoziem Abosi
A Crash No One Saw Coming, but Many Are Talking About
Few people imagined that a Sunday drive could turn tragic. It did—on the day she graduated from Auchi Polytechnic, Ruth Otabor, Phyna’s sister, was struck by a Dangote truck. The accident was so severe it resulted in the amputation of her leg. News of the crash, shared by former BBNaija housemate Phyna, sent shockwaves through social media.
This Isn’t the First Time…
What made this incident even more poignant is that it is not isolated. Just days prior, in the same Edo State, three people were killed in an accident involving a Dangote truck and another vehicle, leaving two others injured.
The activist known online as VeryDarkMan took to the streets. In Auchi, he led residents in blocking Dangote trucks, demanding accountability, safety reviews, and compensation for victims.
Even Apostle Johnson Suleiman took to Instagram to call out the company, stating, “Your recklessness in managing your business has caused harm. This won’t go unchallenged.”
These are not just idle words; they reflect a growing demand for safer logistics and better oversight of drivers.
Dangote Steps In with Care, but Can Trust Be Rebuilt?
Recognizing the public outrage and the tragedy, the Dangote Group acted swiftly. Their statement read, “Following the recent road accident involving one of our trucks, senior officials from Dangote Cement Plc, along with our insurance team, visited the scene, engaged law enforcement, and met with the victim and her family. This action demonstrates our unwavering commitment to support Mrs. Otabor, including comprehensive medical care and appropriate compensation.”
In summary, they have pledged to cover her medical bills and assist with her recovery.
What’s the Next Step?
Dangote’s response is commendable and necessary. However, lasting change will only come if this response leads to a genuine improvement in safety standards.
Are regulators increasing checks on driver training and truck maintenance? Will communities receive the protection they have consistently demanded? These accidents highlight serious concerns, and it is crucial that we maintain our focus on these issues.
Let’s hope Ruth receives the justice and healing she deserves. Meanwhile, Nigerians are watching closely, awaiting a commitment to lasting safety rather than just quick fixes.
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