Driver Charged in Fatal Crash Involving Anthony Joshua in Nigeria

The driver involved in a crash that injured British heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua and resulted in the deaths of two of his friends has appeared in court in Nigeria. Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, aged 46, faced charges at a local court in the southwestern state of Ogun regarding the incident that took place in December 2023. The accident occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, a major route linking Ogun state to the economic hub of Lagos.

Kayode is charged with dangerous driving, causing death, and operating a vehicle without a valid national driver’s licence. Reports indicate that he was driving a Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and his friends when the vehicle collided with a stationary truck. The crash resulted in minor injuries for Joshua but tragically claimed the lives of his two associates, Sina Ghami and Latif “Latz” Ayodele. Officials later determined that Kayode was driving at high speed at the time of the accident.

Originally charged in early January for dangerous driving causing death, reckless and negligent driving, and driving without due care, Kayode was granted bail of five million naira (approximately £2,600). He appeared at the Sagamu Magistrates’ Court wearing a black hoodie and trousers, accompanied by his legal team.

The court proceedings were adjourned until February 25, 2024, following a request from prosecutors. Defence attorneys expressed their desire to proceed with the trial, noting that witnesses were present and ready to testify. “Coupled with the fact that the matter is slated for definite hearing for today, and their witnesses are in court, nothing stops the court from going on,” said Abiodun Olalekan, the defence counsel, in a statement to reporters.

Following the accident, Joshua returned to the United Kingdom. The incident has raised significant concerns regarding road safety in Nigeria, a country where traffic-related fatalities are a pressing issue. Joshua, a two-time heavyweight champion, has connections to Nigeria through family ties and spent part of his childhood there, including attending boarding school.

The trial’s outcome may have a lasting impact on discussions surrounding road safety regulations in the region, highlighting the need for increased enforcement and awareness. As the case unfolds, attention will remain focused on both the legal proceedings and the implications for road safety in Nigeria.