The Ogun State Police Command has disclosed that the driver of the Lexus SUV linked to the fatal road accident involving associates of former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua is being held in custody as investigations continue.
The crash occurred on Monday when the vehicle, conveying Joshua and two of his close associates, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, was travelling along the heavily trafficked Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
During the journey, the Lexus SUV rammed into a stationary truck parked on the road.
The impact of the collision proved fatal for Ayodele and Ghami, who were pronounced dead at the scene, while Anthony Joshua and the driver escaped with minor injuries.
Speaking in a statement released in Abeokuta on Thursday, the Public Relations Officer of the Ogun State Police Command, Oluseyi Babaseyi, explained that law enforcement authorities are carrying out a detailed investigation to establish both the immediate and underlying factors that led to the accident, including the role played by the driver.
“The driver of the Lexus SUV is currently in custody in connection with the Anthony Joshua accident case. Investigations are ongoing,” Babaseyi said.
Anthony Joshua was later discharged from medical care late on Wednesday night after doctors confirmed that his condition was stable enough for him to continue recuperating at home.
Reports further indicate that the former heavyweight champion, accompanied by his mother, visited a Lagos funeral home on Thursday to pay his last respects to Ayodele and Ghami. At the time, the remains of the deceased were being prepared for repatriation, which was scheduled to take place that same night.
Meanwhile, the governments of Lagos and Ogun states have expressed their sympathy to the bereaved families. In a joint statement signed by Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, and the Special Adviser to Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, both state governments conveyed their condolences and appreciation to those who have shown concern.
“We pray the Almighty grants the repose of their souls and provides their families and loved ones with the fortitude to bear this very sad and painful loss,” the statement read.
“Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu deeply appreciate the public concern and the outpouring of love and affection following this very unfortunate incident.”
“They also extend their appreciation to Mr. President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for the fatherly support he has provided throughout this process.”
“We also wish to thank the team of doctors and medical personnel at Lagoon Hospital, Ikoyi, who attended to Anthony and the other injured victims. The quality of care and professionalism they displayed is truly commendable,” the statement concluded.
What you should know
The fatal accident involving Anthony Joshua has drawn nationwide attention due to the loss of two young lives and the involvement of a globally recognised sports figure.
Authorities in Ogun State have taken the driver into custody as part of standard procedure while investigators determine the exact cause of the crash. Both Lagos and Ogun state governments have publicly expressed condolences and acknowledged support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Although Joshua survived with minor injuries, the tragedy has renewed conversations around road safety, parked vehicles on highways, and accountability following fatal road accidents in Nigeria.
