Dangote Pledges Aid to Amputee in Truck Accident

Dangote Pledges Aid to Ruth Otabor

In a swift and compassionate response to a devastating road incident, Dangote Cement Plc has vowed to provide comprehensive medical care and fair compensation to Mrs. Ruth Otabor, a recent Nigerian graduate who suffered severe injuries in an accident involving one of the company's trucks. The pledge underscores the conglomerate's commitment to corporate responsibility amid growing concerns over road safety in Nigeria's logistics sector.

The accident occurred in Auchi, Edo State, leaving Mrs. Otabor identified as Otanor Ruth Bodom, a fresh graduate from Auchi Polytechnic with one leg amputated. Medical professionals have warned that her other leg may also require amputation, while the motorcycle rider involved remains in critical condition. According to several reportage dated August 14, 2025, the family has accused local police of attempting a cover-up, raising questions about accountability in such cases.

Dangote Cement issued a statement on Thursday, August 14, 2025, detailing their proactive steps: Senior officials and the insurance team visited the accident scene immediately, coordinated with law enforcement, and met with the victim and her family at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital. The statement reads:

“Following the recent road accident in Auchi, Edo State, involving one of our trucks, which sadly resulted in injury to Mrs. Ruth Otabor, senior officials from Dangote Cement Plc, together with our Insurance team, promptly visited the scene, engaged with law enforcement authorities, and visited the victim and her family at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State. “This action reflects our unwavering commitment to the well-being of those affected. We are ensuring full support for Mrs. Otabor, including comprehensive medical care and appropriate compensation, in line with Dangote Group's welfare policy.“Our thoughts remain with Mrs. Ruth Otabor and her loved ones, and we wish her a full and speedy recovery.”

This response highlights Dangote's emphasis on employee and community welfare, a policy that has been part of the group's ethos under Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote.

The Edo State Police Command confirmed that the truck driver, alleged to be underage and unlicensed, has been charged in court. He pleaded guilty to three out of four counts, with the case adjourned to August 21, 2025. The family's allegations of a police cover-up add a layer of controversy, prompting calls for transparency and justice in handling corporate-related accidents.

Road accidents involving heavy-duty trucks are a persistent issue in Nigeria, often attributed to poor road conditions, driver negligence, and inadequate regulations. Dangote Cement, a major player in the nation's infrastructure development, operates a vast fleet, making such incidents a focal point for public scrutiny. This case could set a precedent for how corporations handle victim support and collaborate with authorities.

As Nigeria's leading cement producer, Dangote Cement contributes significantly to the economy, employing thousands and supporting infrastructure projects. However, incidents like this spotlight the human cost of industrial operations. The company's pledge not only aids Mrs. Otabor's recovery but also aims to rebuild trust with affected communities in Edo State and beyond.

Experts suggest that enhanced driver training, stricter licensing, and better insurance protocols could prevent future tragedies. As the case progresses, stakeholders will watch closely for outcomes that prioritize victim rights and road safety reforms.

Dangote Cement's actions demonstrate a model for corporate empathy in crisis, but the road to full justice for Mrs. Otabor remains ongoing. We extend our best wishes for her recovery and hope for systemic improvements to protect Nigeria's road users.