By Our Reporter
In the wake of a devastating road accident in Auchi, Edo State, Dangote Cement Plc has vowed to provide full medical care and adequate compensation to Mrs. Ruth Otabor, a young Nigerian graduate whose life was tragically altered after one of the company’s trucks struck her, leading to the amputation of her leg.
The accident, which occurred earlier this month, has thrown the community into mourning and sparked conversations about road safety, corporate responsibility, and the plight of accident victims in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Dangote Cement Plc revealed that senior company officials and its insurance team rushed to the scene shortly after the incident, working closely with law enforcement agencies before proceeding to the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital to meet with Mrs. Otabor and her family.
“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,” the company said.
According to SaharaReporters, Mrs. Otabor — identified as Otanor Ruth Bodom, a fresh graduate of Auchi Polytechnic — had her right leg amputated in the aftermath of the crash. Disturbingly, doctors have warned that her other leg may also require amputation due to severe injury.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed that the truck driver, alleged to be underage and unlicensed, has already been charged to court. He pleaded guilty to three of the four charges against him, with the case adjourned to August 21.
Meanwhile, the motorcycle rider who was conveying Mrs. Otabor at the time of the accident remains in critical condition, battling for his life.
The tragedy has once again raised serious concerns over the recruitment and monitoring of drivers by haulage companies, as well as the urgent need for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations.
For Mrs. Otabor and her family, the road to recovery will be long and painful — but Dangote Cement’s pledge of full medical and financial support offers a glimmer of hope amid the darkness of this life-changing ordeal.
PIONEER NEWS 