Nigerian police have formally charged the driver of former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua with dangerous driving following a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of two members of the boxer's team.
Charges Laid Following High-Speed Collision
Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, faces multiple charges including dangerous driving, operating a vehicle without a valid licence, and driving without due care and attention, causing bodily harm and property damage. He is scheduled to appear in court on 20 January.
The fatal incident occurred on 29 December on the busy Lagos-Ibadan expressway in south-west Nigeria. Kayode was behind the wheel of a Lexus SUV carrying Joshua, his personal trainer Latif Ayodele, and strength coach Sina Gham.
Details of the Tragic Accident
According to the Federal Road Safety Corps, the vehicle was believed to be travelling "beyond the legally prescribed speed limit." The crash happened when a tyre on the passenger side burst as the driver attempted an overtaking manoeuvre.
The Lexus then collided with a stationary lorry carrying soya beans, which was illegally parked on the hard shoulder approximately 30 miles from Lagos. Both Ayodele and Gham, aged 36, died at the scene.
Kayode, described as a longstanding member of Joshua's team, and the boxer himself survived with minor injuries. The driver was taken to Lagoon Hospital in Ikoyi for observation and was later granted bail set at 5 million naira (approximately £2,580). He remains in custody pending the fulfilment of bail conditions.
Aftermath and Ongoing Investigations
Following the collision, Joshua and another passenger were evacuated to a specialised medical facility in Lagos. The Ogun state government confirmed that comprehensive clinical assessments found both patients stable with no immediate need for emergency intervention.
Later on the day of the accident, Joshua and his mother visited a funeral home to pay their respects to his deceased friends and colleagues.
The tragedy struck just ten days after Joshua celebrated his victory over YouTuber Jake Paul in the United States. Prior to the crash, the former champion was believed to be preparing for a return to the boxing ring early this year.
Authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances of the crash, which has sent shockwaves through the sporting community.
