Anthony Joshua Crash: Driver Discharged, Prosecution Looms After Lagos–Ibadan Tragedy
The driver of the SUV carrying former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua during the deadly accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway has been released from hospital care and may now face charges for reckless driving.
According to The Guardian, this development followed a visit to Duchess International Hospital, Lagos, where Joshua initially received treatment for injuries sustained in the crash. Authorities confirmed that the driver has since submitted a statement to security agencies and could be prosecuted. Investigations are ongoing at the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) office at the Sagamu interchange, where the truck involved in the collision is currently impounded.
Confirming the update, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson of the Nigeria Police Force, told The Guardian that Joshua’s driver had been discharged and was cooperating with investigators. An FRSC official also revealed that the truck driver fled the scene immediately after the crash and was later declared wanted.
Earlier findings by the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) linked the incident to excessive speed and a tyre burst. TRACE stated that preliminary investigations showed the front passenger-side tyre of the SUV burst, causing the driver to lose control before ramming into a stationary truck.
Speaking to reporters, TRACE spokesperson Babatunde Akinbiyi explained that overspeeding played a major role, adding that the tyre burst triggered the loss of control that led to the fatal impact.
Joshua, aged 36, was rushed to Duchess International Hospital and is said to be in stable condition. Sadly, two members of his team—Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele—lost their lives at the scene.
Matchroom Boxing confirmed the deaths in an emotional statement, describing the victims as close friends and valued team members. Reacting to the tragedy, Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn expressed deep sorrow, paying tribute to the duo and extending prayers to their families.
Meanwhile, Joshua’s family earlier voiced distress over difficulties in seeing the boxer following the accident. Speaking at the family home in Sagamu, Ijokun, Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, described the incident as a “rude shock,” noting that the family was not promptly informed.
He explained that news of the crash only reached them after multiple calls from concerned individuals. According to him, Joshua typically visits home several times a year, especially during festive periods, making the tragedy even more unexpected and heartbreaking.
