By Maryjane Austine
Two Dead as Anthony Joshua Survives Ogun Road Crash
Internationally acclaimed boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, was involved in a road accident on Monday in the Makun area of Ogun State along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, resulting in the death of two persons.
The crash occurred at about 11:00 am on the busy highway when a sports utility vehicle transporting the former heavyweight champion collided with a stationary truck. Reports indicated that Joshua was rescued from the wreckage and sustained injuries.
A video circulating online showed the 35-year-old being pulled out of the damaged vehicle. The incident came barely eight days after Joshua knocked out YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a Netflix-backed bout in Miami.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) confirmed the accident in a statement issued by the Assistant Corps Marshal and Corps Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide.
According to the FRSC, the crash involved a Lexus SUV conveying Joshua and a stationary truck.
“The incident involved two vehicles: a black Lexus Jeep with registration number KRD 850 HN (private) and a stationary red commercial Sinotruck with unknown registration number. A total of five adult males were involved in the crash.
“Two persons sadly lost their lives, one sustained injuries, while two others escaped unhurt. Anthony Joshua was rescued alive and sustained minor injuries.
“The injured victim was evacuated for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were conveyed to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu,” the statement said.
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The FRSC noted that the Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division was informed for further investigation and documentation.
Preliminary findings, according to the agency, showed that the Lexus Jeep was suspected to have been travelling beyond the prescribed speed limit before losing control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashing into the stationary truck parked by the roadside.
“The primary causes of the crash being excessive speed and wrongful overtaking constitute serious traffic violations and remain among the leading causes of fatal road crashes on Nigerian highways,” the FRSC said.
The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished Joshua a speedy recovery.
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The FRSC also reiterated its warning to motorists against excessive speed, dangerous overtaking and disregard for traffic regulations, especially on major highways such as the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, urging road users to prioritise safety during the festive travel period.