British heavyweight boxer Anthony Joshua was involved in a serious road accident on Monday, occurring on the bustling Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State, Nigeria. The incident saw Joshua's vehicle collide with a stationary truck, leading to tragic consequences and raising significant concerns. While the renowned Nigerian-born boxer sustained minor injuries and is currently receiving medical attention, two of his close associates tragically lost their lives in the crash.

News of the accident prompted a swift response from various quarters. President Tinubu, who is presently abroad, reached out to Joshua and his mother via phone to express his profound sympathy, offer prayers, and provide support during this difficult period. In a statement, President Tinubu lauded Joshua's inherent qualities, remarking, "I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident. As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride."

The accident has also brought Nigeria’s emergency response systems under scrutiny. Popular journalist Rufai Oseni critically questioned the immediate availability of crucial services at the scene. He highlighted that Joshua, despite being a prominent figure, had to be transported to a hospital in a police van due to the apparent absence of an ambulance. Oseni's pointed questions, "Was there no Ambulance/ Emergency number to call during the Anthony Joshua incident? Where are the first responders! Na wa?" underscore a broader concern about the efficacy of emergency services on major Nigerian roads.

The boxing community has rallied around Joshua, paying tribute to his lost friends and offering support for his recovery. Joshua, who had only recently made a comeback to competitive boxing after a year-long hiatus and secured a recent victory against Jake Paul in a heavyweight bout, is expected to make a full recovery from his injuries. The incident serves as a somber reminder of road safety challenges and the critical need for robust emergency infrastructure.