Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Nigerian law enforcement has officially charged the driver involved in a tragic road incident that injured British boxing champion Anthony Joshua and resulted in the deaths of two pivotal figures from his support team.
On Friday, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, was brought before the Sagamu Magistrates’ Court in Ogun State. Sources from the police indicate that the charges encompass causing death through reckless driving, as well as several other severe road violations.
This heartbreaking accident transpired on Monday along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, a key route in southwestern Nigeria. Reports suggest that the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and his entourage collided with a parked truck.
Both Joshua’s personal trainer, Latif Ayodele, and strength coach, Sina Ghami, were declared dead on-site. Joshua, who was a passenger, suffered injuries and was rushed to the hospital, being discharged the following Wednesday.
According to police, prosecutors have filed four counts against Kayode:
-
Causing death by dangerous driving
-
Reckless and negligent driving
-
Driving without due care and attention
-
Operating without a valid driver’s license
The court granted bail to the driver, set at ₦5 million (around £2,578), but he will remain in custody until all conditions are met. The case is set to resume on January 20.
Images from Nigeria’s Federal Road Safety Corps depicted the extensively damaged black SUV at the scene, surrounded by emergency personnel and onlookers.
Officials from Ogun and Lagos states released a statement, mentioning Joshua’s “heavy-hearted” feeling about the unfortunate loss of his close friends and longstanding team members.
Following his hospital discharge, Joshua went to the funeral home where Ayodele and Ghami’s bodies were being prepared for repatriation.
Just hours prior to the incident, Joshua posted a video on Instagram of himself playing table tennis with Ayodele, a moment that has elicited emotional responses from fans across the globe.
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, expressed his tribute on social media, commending the duo for their unwavering loyalty and energy, and sending prayers to their families and Joshua during this challenging time.
Hailing from Watford, Joshua has strong familial connections to Sagamu, the town near the site of the crash. A relative mentioned that he was traveling there to visit family for New Year festivities.
After his recent win against Jake Paul on December 19, Joshua had been enjoying time in Nigeria. Paul also conveyed his condolences, stating that life surpasses boxing and offering prayers for all impacted by this tragic event.
English
