Big Brother Naija Level Up housemate Ijeoma Otabor, better known as Phyna, has penned an emotional tribute to her late sister, Ruth Itabor, on the occasion of her child’s 6th birthday.
In a lengthy post on her Instagram page, she praised her sister for shaping her life in ways words can barely capture. Phyna described her sister as her confidant, safe place, protector, and a quiet strength in every storm.
She revealed that her sister’s laughter had a way of softening even the hardest moments, and her kindness wasn’t something she performed; it was who she was at her core. She noted how her sister carried love with such grace, gave without hesitation, and taught her what it means to show up for those she cares about.
The reality star said losing her left a space that no one else can ever fill, but loving her left an imprint that can never fade. She expressed her honour in the way her late sister lived, the strength she gathered, and in every step she takes.
Phyna added that she is also marking the birthday of her child. She expressed pride in watching the child grow into his own person and showered him with prayers.
“Today, I want to speak from the deepest part of my heart about someone whose presence shaped my life in ways words can barely capture: my beloved sister, Ruth.
Ruth was more than a sister; she was a confidant, a safe place, a protector, and a quiet strength in every storm. Her laughter had a way of softening the hardest moments, and her kindness wasn’t something she performed; it was who she was to her core. She carried love with so much grace, gave without hesitation, and taught me what it means to show up for those you care about.
There are memories of her that live with me like warm light moments of comfort, jokes we shared, silent understandings, and the way she believed in me even when I doubted myself. Losing her left a space that no one else can ever fill, but loving her left an imprint that can never fade. I honour her in the way I live, in the strength I gather, and in every step forward I take. Ruth, your name is stitched into my story forever, and I will continue to celebrate you in everything I become. You are loved beyond words, remembered beyond time, and missed beyond measure.
Today also marks a beautiful milestone: Ruth’s first child turns 6!
Happy Birthday to this bright, growing star! You carry a piece of your mother’s light, and watching you become your own person is a blessing. May your life be filled with joy, wisdom, laughter, protection, and endless opportunities. You are surrounded by love, and your mother’s spirit lives proudly through you. Shine, little one, this world is better with you in it. I love you
Four Years of Love, Fame & Family
From the very first day till now, it has been a ride of highs, lessons, memories, growth, and grace. My fans, my people, you stood by me in noise and in silence, in celebration and in controversy, in mistakes and in milestones. You didn’t just support me; you became my family, and together we built something powerful.
To everyone who has loved me, rooted for me, prayed for me, protected me, and grown with me, thank you.
Ruth, your memory lives in me.
I love you, baby”.
