By Ayomide Otitoju
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sympathy to former world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, following a tragic road accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway that claimed two lives and left the boxer injured.
In a statement shared on his official X handle, President Tinubu said the incident had cast a shadow over the festive season, describing it as a painful moment. He conveyed his condolences to Joshua and his family, urging unity and mutual support in difficult times.
“As a sportsman, you have consistently demonstrated courage, discipline, and an unwavering love for our country—qualities that have made you a source of national pride,” the president said, praying for strength, wisdom, and grace for the boxer. He also asked God to grant Joshua a speedy recovery and eternal rest to the souls of the deceased.
Channels Television reported that Joshua was involved in the accident on Monday at about 11:00 a.m. in the Makun area of Ogun State. The crash occurred along the busy Lagos–Ibadan Expressway when the SUV conveying the 35-year-old boxer reportedly collided with a stationary truck, resulting in the death of two persons.
Videos circulating online showed Joshua being rescued from the wreckage of the vehicle, appearing to have sustained injuries.
The accident came barely eight days after Joshua knocked out YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a Netflix-backed bout in Miami.
In a statement, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) attributed the crash to overspeeding and wrongful overtaking. According to the agency, preliminary investigations indicated that the Lexus SUV, suspected to have been travelling above the prescribed speed limit, lost control while overtaking and rammed into a stationary truck properly parked by the roadside.
“The primary causes of the crash—excessive speed and wrongful overtaking—are serious traffic violations and remain among the leading causes of fatal road crashes on Nigerian highways,” the FRSC said.
The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished Anthony Joshua a speedy recovery.
