The Janaza, or Islamic funeral prayer, for two close associates of boxing star Anthony Joshua will be held on Sunday in London, following their tragic deaths in a road accident in Nigeria last week.
Sina Ghami and Abdul Latif Kevin Ayodele lost their lives in the crash on Monday, an incident in which Joshua was also involved but survived with minor injuries.
The fatal accident occurred while the former world heavyweight champion was travelling as a passenger in a Lexus SUV that collided with a stationary truck.
At the London Central Mosque, mourners gathered for the Janaza prayers, with funeral proceedings for Ghami expected to take place at Hendon Cemetery and Crematorium from midday. A wake for both men is also scheduled for later in the day, from around 3pm, at Cavendish Banqueting Hall in North West London.
Joshua, who was born in Watford and spent much of his early life in North London and Hertfordshire, has close personal ties to the area where the funeral events are being held. The 36-year-old boxer was hospitalised after the crash but was discharged on New Year’s Eve after sustaining only minor injuries.
The bodies of Ghami and Ayodele were earlier repatriated to the United Kingdom to allow funeral arrangements to be concluded. Both men were considered integral members of Joshua’s inner circle, playing significant roles in his training, conditioning and professional journey. Their deaths have cast a sombre mood over what was meant to be a period of rest and celebration for the boxer.
Joshua, who was born to Nigerian parents, had travelled to Nigeria for a holiday following his victory over Jake Paul in Miami on December 19. The trip ended in tragedy after the fatal crash.
The driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, has been charged by the Ogun State Police Command with causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a licence. The case has been adjourned until January 20, with the defendant granted bail in the sum of N5 million and remanded pending the fulfilment of his bail conditions.
What you should know
The funeral prayers mark the final farewell to two men who were central to Anthony Joshua’s personal and professional life.
While the boxer escaped serious harm, the accident claimed the lives of his close associates, prompting legal action against the driver involved.
The tragedy has drawn widespread sympathy and brought renewed attention to road safety and accountability following the incident.
