Anthony Joshua recently endured a harrowing experience after sustaining minor injuries in a car accident in Nigeria, which tragically claimed the lives of two of his close friends, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele. Both men were not only personal friends but also integral members of Joshua’s training entourage. The devastating crash happened on December 29 when their Lexus SUV collided with a stationary truck on the heavily trafficked Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, located in Ogun State.
In the aftermath of the accident, Nigerian authorities have taken action, charging the 46-year-old driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, with multiple offenses including causing death through dangerous driving and operating a vehicle without a valid licence. The Ogun State Police Command has reported that Kayode appeared in court on Friday to face serious charges including dangerous driving resulting in death, as well as reckless and negligent driving. Additional charges encompass driving without due care and attention, which led to bodily harm and property damage, and operating the vehicle without a valid national driver’s licence.
The court has scheduled the case for January 20, allowing for further legal proceedings to unfold. Kayode, while being granted bail set at 5,000,000 Naira (equivalent to about £2,578), remains under remand until he meets the conditions associated with his bail. According to reports from the Federal Road Safety Corps, the Lexus was reportedly exceeding the speed limit and lost control while trying to overtake another vehicle, contributing directly to the tragic accident that unfolded around 11 am in Makun, approximately 30 miles from the bustling city of Lagos.
Witnesses and social media footage have shown Joshua in a state of distress, visibly shaken and in pain as he was aided from the wreckage of the vehicle. Following the incident, Joshua was rushed to a local hospital for assessment. Fortunately, medical staff determined that he did not require any immediate emergency treatment, allowing him to be discharged by the following Wednesday—albeit still reeling from the emotional impact of the incident.
A spokesperson for Joshua later released a poignant statement that conveyed the profound sadness felt by those close to the boxer. It read: “It is with the deepest and most profound sadness that we confirm, following a road traffic accident in Lagos Nigeria, the death of Sina Ghami and Kevin ‘Latif’ Ayodele. Both were close friends and integral members of Anthony’s team.” This heartbreaking news serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the unexpected nature of tragedy.
Joshua, who proudly embraces his Nigerian heritage, was in the country for a visit following his recent triumph against Jake Paul in Miami. This marked a significant comeback for him, as he had been absent from the sport for over 15 months. On December 19, he showcased his boxing prowess by achieving an impressive sixth-round knockout victory over Paul at the Kaseya Center, a fight that drew substantial media attention. However, the joy of his return has been overshadowed by the heartbreaking loss of his friends, adding a layer of sorrow to what should have been a celebratory moment in his career. As he navigates this challenging period, it is evident that Joshua’s path forward remains marked by both personal and professional struggles.
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