sports

Nigerians Condole with Anthony Joshua After Fatal Accident

Published

4 months ago

December 30, 2025

Anthony Joshua survives fatal Lagos–Ibadan Expressway accident. Nigerians, including President Tinubu, send condolences and prayers

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun, and other Nigerians have sent condolences to British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua following a fatal road accident in Makun, Ogun State, on Monday that claimed two lives, The PUNCH reports.

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The Ogun and Lagos State governments confirmed that Joshua is in stable condition and receiving medical care at a specialised hospital in Lagos, alongside another survivor of the crash.

The former two-time heavyweight champion was immediately evacuated from the scene, according to a joint statement by Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, and Ogun State Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade.

President Tinubu addressed Joshua on X, describing the incident as a tragic loss that casts a shadow over the season.

“I extend my deep sympathies to you following the tragic accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, which claimed two precious lives and caused you injuries,” he said, praying for the repose of the deceased and a speedy recovery for the boxer.

Three hours later, Tinubu confirmed a call with Joshua and his family, assuring himself of the boxer’s medical care.

“I have spoken with AJ to personally convey my condolences over the passing of his two close associates, Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami. I wished him a full and speedy recovery,” the President wrote.

Atiku Abubakar expressed deep sadness over the incident and prayed for Joshua’s swift recovery, while Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi also offered condolences to the boxer and the families of the deceased.

Former Ogun Governor Ibikunle Amosun described the accident as saddening and most unfortunate, urging Joshua to recover fully.

Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, visited Joshua at the hospital, offering condolences to the families affected.

The Nigerian Boxing Federation International and the Nigeria Boxing Board of Control also sent messages of support and prayers.

The Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, confirmed that Joshua was seated in the rear of the Lexus SUV and sustained minor injuries.

Two other passengers, identified as Ayodele Kelvin Olu, a 36-year-old Nigerian-British citizen, and Gami Sina, a 36-year-old British citizen, died at the scene.

Their bodies were conveyed to Livewell Hospital Morgue, Sagamu, and a full investigation into the accident has been launched.

The Federal Road Safety Corps noted that preliminary findings indicated the Lexus Jeep was travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit when it lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and collided with a stationary truck.

Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed extended condolences to the deceased families and wished Joshua a speedy recovery.

Nigerian fans flooded social media with prayers and messages of support for Joshua, recognising his survival as a miracle.

The 35-year-old boxer had been in Nigeria ahead of planned sporting events and community engagements.