Ogun State, Nigeria – January 2, 2026: Nigerian police have charged the driver of a car carrying British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua with reckless and dangerous driving following a tragic crash that killed two men and left Joshua with minor injuries. The accident occurred on December 29, 2025, on a busy highway linking Lagos and Ibadan in southwestern Nigeria.

The driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, was transporting Joshua along with two friends, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, when the Lexus SUV they were in collided with a stationary truck. Both Ayodele and Ghami were pronounced dead at the scene, while Joshua and the driver sustained minor injuries.

Charges and Bail

Police spokesman Oluseyi Babaseyi confirmed that Kayode had been granted bail of 5 million naira ($3,480) with two sureties but remains in custody until he meets the bail conditions. Kayode had been hospitalized following the crash and was taken into police custody after his discharge.

Authorities have charged him with reckless driving and dangerous driving causing death, reflecting the severity of the incident and the tragic loss of life.

Details of the Crash

Preliminary investigations by the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) in Ogun State revealed that the SUV was traveling at excessive speed before the collision. Reports indicate that a tyre burst may have contributed to the driver losing control, resulting in the vehicle ramming into the stationary truck.

Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with emergency responders quickly arriving to assist. Unfortunately, Ayodele and Ghami could not be saved, underscoring the dangers of high-speed travel on Nigeria’s highways.

Anthony Joshua’s Condition and Response

Joshua, who has represented the United Kingdom in multiple international boxing competitions, suffered minor injuries and was hospitalized briefly. After being discharged on Wednesday, he, along with his mother, visited a funeral home to pay respects to his deceased friends. A government source indicated that the victims’ remains may be repatriated to the UK for final rites.

Joshua’s exact whereabouts following the hospital discharge are currently unknown, but reports suggest he is under close supervision and recovering.

Public Reaction and Road Safety Concerns

The accident has raised renewed concerns about road safety and vehicle maintenance in Nigeria, particularly on highways connecting Lagos with major cities like Ibadan. Excessive speeding and poor tyre maintenance are often cited as contributing factors in fatal crashes nationwide.

Authorities have urged drivers to adhere to traffic regulations, maintain vehicles properly, and prioritize passenger safety to prevent future tragedies.

Summary

• Date of crash: December 29, 2025
• Location: Highway linking Lagos and Ibadan, Ogun State, Nigeria
• Vehicle: Lexus SUV
• Casualties: Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami (deceased); Anthony Joshua and driver sustained minor injuries
• Driver: Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, charged with reckless and dangerous driving
• Bail: 5 million naira ($3,480) with two sureties

The incident is a stark reminder of the dangers of high-speed driving and the importance of road safety regulations in Nigeria, particularly for vehicles transporting high-profile individuals or groups.