Anthony Joshua’s Driver Discharged, May Face Prosecution After Fatal Lagos-Ibadan Crash
The driver of the vehicle carrying former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua during the fatal Lagos-Ibadan Expressway crash has been discharged from Duchess International Hospital and may face prosecution for reckless driving. According to the Nigeria Police Force, the driver has given a statement to security agencies following the incident. The truck involved in the crash is currently being held at the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) office at the Sagamu interchange. “Anthony Joshua’s driver has been discharged from the hospital, and he is currently giving his statement,” confirmed CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force. An FRSC official added that the driver of the stationary truck involved in the crash fled the scene immediately after the accident and was later declared wanted. Investigations by the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) indicate that the crash resulted from excessive speed and a burst tyre on the passenger side of the SUV Joshua was travelling in. TRACE spokesperson Babatunde Akinbiyi said, “From the preliminary investigation, there was overspeeding on the SUV. During that, the front tyre on the passenger side burst, causing the driver to lose control and crash into the stationary truck.” Joshua, 36, was treated at Duchess International Hospital and is reportedly in stable condition. Tragically, two members of his team, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, died at the scene. Matchroom Boxing confirmed the deaths, stating, “With profound sadness, it has been confirmed that two close friends and team members, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, have tragically passed away.” Eddie Hearn, chairman of Matchroom Boxing, also mourned the losses, saying, “With the heaviest of hearts. Two great men. Rest in eternal peace Sina and Latz. My thoughts and deepest prayers are with everyone.” Joshua’s family expressed distress over the delay in being informed about the accident. Speaking at the family’s Sagamu residence, Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, said the news came as a “rude shock,” adding that the incident was entirely unexpected during the festive season when the boxer usually visits home.