PHYNA FIRES BACK AT CRITICS OVER BBL SURGERY AFTER SISTER’S DEATH

By: Balogun Ibrahim
Ijeoma Otabor, winner of Big Brother Naija Season 7, has responded strongly to critics questioning her decision to undergo a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) just months after losing her sister.
During an Instagram livestream on Saturday, the reality star—popularly known as Phyna—called out what she described as widespread hypocrisy among Nigerians.
Phyna recently revealed that she underwent a BBL and 360 liposuction procedure, sharing a post-surgery video that quickly went viral with the caption, “Finally did it. No regrets.”
Addressing backlash that the timing of the surgery was disrespectful to her late sister, Ruth Otabor, Phyna dismissed the criticism, stressing that her grieving process is private and not for public display.
She said she does not feel obligated to mourn publicly online, adding that while her loss is deeply personal, she chooses not to express it through social media.
Phyna also cautioned critics against bringing her sister’s death into online debates, stating that her loss is not open for public scrutiny.
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Defending her family, she noted that life continued shortly after her sister’s burial, emphasizing that people cope with grief differently and should be allowed to move on at their own pace.
She further addressed claims made by social commentator VeryDarkMan, denying allegations that she received ₦1 billion from Dangote Group in connection with her sister’s death. Phyna described the claim as false and distasteful.
Unapologetic about her surgery, Phyna said she plans to confidently show off her new look, revealing she has been preparing outfits to highlight her body. She also suggested that past criticism of her appearance contributed to her decision to undergo the procedure.
Ruth Otabor passed away on August 31, 2025, following complications from injuries sustained in a road accident involving a Dangote truck near Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State. The crash, which occurred shortly after her graduation, left her severely injured, including the amputation of one leg.
The Dangote Group had reportedly covered her medical expenses and made arrangements for advanced treatment abroad before her death.
Before the tragedy, Phyna and VeryDarkMan had publicly disagreed over how the situation was handled, with the activist accusing her of making financial demands—claims she denied.
Phyna’s livestream has since sparked mixed reactions online, with some supporting her right to heal on her own terms, while others criticized her stance. She, however, appeared unfazed, ending her remarks with a warning to critics.
