British heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua was involved in a tragic car crash on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of two close associates: his strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami and trainer Latif “Latz” Ayodele.
The Lexus SUV they were traveling in collided with a stationary truck while Kayode, the 46-year-old driver, attempted to overtake another vehicle. A burst front passenger-side tire caused him to lose control, leading to the fatal accident. Ghami and Ayodele, both aged 36, died at the scene, while Joshua and Kayode sustained minor injuries.
In the aftermath, Nigerian authorities charged Kayode with several offenses, including dangerous and reckless driving, causing death by dangerous driving, and driving without a valid license.
He was granted bail of 5 million naira (around $3,480) and awaits trial scheduled for January 20. Joshua, who holds dual British and Nigerian nationality, was discharged from the hospital after being found fit to recover at home and has chosen to remain in Nigeria during this period.
This incident has reignited discussions about road safety in Nigeria, a nation that saw over 5,400 road fatalities in 2024. The boxing community has shown solidarity with Joshua, with tributes pouring in for Ghami and Ayodele from prominent figures, including Tyson Fury and Wladimir Klitschko.
As legal proceedings continue against Kayode, the need for improved road safety measures in Nigeria remains a pressing concern to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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