The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has formally expressed its condolences following the death of Miss Ruth Otabor, sister of reality television personality Phyna, who died from injuries sustained in a crash near Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State.
The accident occurred on 11 August 2025 close to the institution’s sports complex. It involved a Dangote truck and a commercial motorcycle on Auchi Road, leaving Otabor critically injured. Despite medical intervention, she later passed away.
In a statement, FRSC Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed described the development as deeply regrettable. On behalf of the Corps, he extended sympathy to the Otabor family, the Auchi Polytechnic Students’ Union, and the wider school community.
“The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has received with deep sadness the news of the passing of Miss Ruth Otabor, the lady involved in the unfortunate crash that occurred on Monday, 11th August 2025, at about 10:30hrs, near the Sports Complex of Auchi Polytechnic, along Auchi Road, Edo State, involving a Dangote truck and a commercial motorcycle.
“While the Corps has always ensured that the roads are safe for all to use, it is most regrettable that this crash had to occur and despite all medical efforts, the female victim has now succumbed to her injuries. The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, on behalf of the entire Management and Staff of the Corps, condoles with the family of the deceased, the Students Union and Auchi Polytechnic Community. He prays for the repose of the soul of the Deceased.”
The Corps noted that, immediately after the crash, it initiated engagements with relevant groups to prevent a repeat of such an incident. These included discussions with the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) aimed at addressing students’ concerns and clarifying the FRSC’s role in road safety management.
The statement further explained that the agency has strengthened its collaboration with major fleet operators, including Dangote, BUA, and other trucking companies, by introducing structured training and mandatory recertification programmes for drivers.
“You would recall that following the crash, the Corps immediately took proactive steps to engage critical stakeholders towards preventing a reoccurrence. These measures included convening a meeting with the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) to address their concerns and to provide a clear account of the Corps’ ongoing interventions in road safety management. Furthermore, the Corps has since intensified its collaboration with major fleet operators, including Dangote, BUA, and other heavy truck companies, through structured training and recertification programmes for their drivers.”
Reassuring the public, the Corps Marshal stressed that the FRSC remains focused on reducing fatalities through stricter enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and sustained partnerships with stakeholders.
“To this end, the Corps Marshal wishes to assure the public that the Corps remains committed to creating safer road environments across Nigeria. While noting that this tragic incident serves as a sober reminder of the need for collective responsibility, the Corps will continue to strengthen enforcement, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement to ensure that such crashes are averted in the future.
“Once again, the FRSC extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and pledges continued dedication to its mandate of safeguarding lives on Nigerian roads.”