By Our Diplomatic and Sports Correspondents
LAGOS — Preliminary investigations into the harrowing road traffic accident involving the former two-time unified heavyweight world champion, Anthony Joshua, have shifted focus toward a mechanical failure exacerbated by velocity. Authorities in Nigeria now believe the catastrophic event, which claimed the lives of two individuals, was precipitated by a high-speed tyre blowout.
The incident occurred on Monday on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, a primary arterial route in the southwest of the country. Mr Joshua, 36, was a passenger in the rear of a black Lexus vehicle when it collided with a stationary Sinotruk. While the fighter is reported to have sustained only “minor” injuries, the collision proved fatal for two of his close associates, identified as Kevin Ayodele and Sina Ghami.
Initially, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) suggested the vehicle had been exceeding the speed limit whilst attempting an overtaking manoeuvre. However, a more specific theory has since been posited by Police Commander Babatunde Akinbiyi of the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps.
“Preliminary investigations stipulate that the Lexus was travelling from Lagos toward Sagamu when it experienced a tyre burst due to excessive speed,” Commander Akinbiyi noted. The subsequent loss of control led to the vehicle striking the heavy goods vehicle.
Footage captured in the immediate aftermath of the tragedy depicted a visibly dazed Mr Joshua seated amidst shattered glass. He was subsequently admitted to a local infirmary for “checks and treatment,” where his condition is described as stable.
The gravity of the accident has prompted a direct response from the highest levels of the Nigerian government. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has personally telephoned the boxer and his mother, Yeta Odusanya, to offer his condolences.
In a statement released via the social media platform X, President Tinubu remarked: “This immense tragedy casts a deep shadow on this season. As a sportsman, [Anthony Joshua] has always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for him during this painful period.”
Governor Dapo Abiodun is understood to be attending to the champion at his bedside, ensuring that he receives the most fastidious medical attention available.
The deaths of Mr Ayodele and Mr Ghami have sent shockwaves through the boxing community. Mr Joshua’s long-standing promoter, Eddie Hearn, expressed his grief on social media, describing the deceased as “two great men” and offering his “deepest prayers” to those affected.
Chris Eubank Jr also shared a poignant tribute, acknowledging the loss of the “two fallen soldiers” while expressing gratitude that the heavyweight champion survived the “horrible” wreckage.
As Mr Joshua remains under medical observation, the focus of the Nigerian authorities remains on a thorough forensic examination of the vehicle’s remains to confirm the definitive cause of the blowout.
