World boxing champion Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious auto crash on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, an incident that tragically claimed the lives of two of his associates, Latz and Sina. Sina, notably, served as Joshua’s strength and conditioning coach and had prepared him for his recent fight against Jake Paul. The accident also brought to light concerns regarding emergency response capabilities, despite later reports from authorities.

The unfortunate event occurred while Joshua’s party, including three others, was en route to Sagamu. Reports from the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE) indicated the crash happened around 11:00 a.m., while the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) placed the time at approximately 12:00 noon. Joshua’s Lexus Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV), bearing number plate KRD 850 HN, was involved. According to sources at the scene, the Lexus lost a tyre and subsequently collided with a stationary truck. Joshua was seated at the back of the vehicle with one other person, while the driver and another occupant were in the front.

Confirming the tragic outcome, Mr. Babatunde Akinbiyi, spokesperson for TRACE, stated that two white male adults died on the spot and their bodies were taken to Livewell Morgue in Sagamu. Anthony Joshua and his driver were rescued by Department of State Services (DSS) operatives from his convoy and transported to an undisclosed hospital. The accident vehicle was later towed to the Sagamu Motor Registry Department (MRD) office, though the stationary truck remained at the scene.

Contrasting with initial suggestions of inadequate rescue equipment, the FRSC presented preliminary findings attributing the crash primarily to excessive speed and wrongful overtaking. The Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, reported that FRSC operatives arrived at the scene within three minutes of the 12:00 noon report, facilitating swift rescue operations, victim evacuation, and traffic control. The FRSC findings indicated that the Lexus Jeep was likely traveling beyond the legal speed limit, lost control during an overtaking maneuver, and crashed into a truck properly parked by the roadside.

The incident drew widespread reactions from prominent figures. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, through his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, expressed profound sorrow, describing the accident as deeply unfortunate and painful. He emphasized the critical need for motorists to exercise caution and strictly adhere to traffic regulations, particularly during festive periods when road traffic is heavy. Governor Abiodun also called on road safety officers and security agencies to enhance surveillance and enforcement to safeguard lives and property, extending prayers for the departed souls and the swift recovery of the injured.

The Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, on behalf of the entire management and staff, extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished Anthony Joshua and the injured survivor a speedy recovery. The FRSC reiterated its stern warning to motorists to avoid speeding, dangerous overtaking, and disregard for traffic rules, especially on high-speed corridors like the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, advocating for patience, lane discipline, and prioritizing safety.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also conveyed his sympathy to the British-Nigerian boxer via a post on his verified X handle. Atiku expressed deep sadness over the news and offered prayers for Joshua’s quick and complete recovery, referring to him as a symbol of strength and resilience.