Breaking: Nigerian Driver Charged Over Joshua crash That Killed Two
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Lagos, Nigeria — A senior driver on Anthony Joshua’s team was formally charged with dangerous driving after a fatal crash on December 29 that claimed the lives of two people. Prosecutors say Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, also faces counts of driving without a valid license and driving without due care, causing bodily harm and property damage.
Kayode is expected to appear in court on January 20 to answer the charges. Investigators with the Federal Road Safety Corps say the vehicle was believed to be travelling faster than the limit before the incident unfolded on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway,about 30 miles from Lagos.
what Happened
Kayode was behind the wheel of a Lexus SUV that carried Joshua, the former world heavyweight champion aged 36, along with Joshua’s personal trainer Latif Ayodele and strength coach Sina Ghami. Authorities say the vehicle was overtaking another car when a tyre burst on the passenger side, causing the SUV to collide with a stationary lorry loaded with soya beans parked on the hard shoulder.
Ayodele and ghami died at the scene. Joshua and Kayode sustained injuries considered minor, while Kayode was transported to Lagoon Hospital in Ikoyi for observation over two days. Joshua and his mother later visited the funeral home to pay respects to friends.
Current Legal Status
Kayode, a long-time member of Joshua’s team, was granted bail set at 5 million naira (about £2,580) but remains in custody pending compliance with bail conditions.he is due to appear in court on January 20.
Context and Background
The crash occurred just ten days after Joshua’s triumph over Jake Paul in a U.S. bout, a victory that many fans had seen as a potential signal of a return to competitive boxing early this year. Ogun state officials confirmed that both Joshua and another passenger were evacuated to a Lagos medical facility for assessment, with doctors reporting stability and no emergency intervention required at that time. A medical team has been assigned to monitor Joshua and others involved.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Suspect | Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46 — Joshua’s driver |
| Charges | |
| Date of incident | |
| Location | |
| Victims | |
| Passengers | Anthony Joshua (36) and Kayode survived with minor injuries |
| Vehicle | Lexus SUV |
| Cause | |
| Bail | |
| Next court date | |
| Medical status |
Evergreen Takeaways
Road-safety incidents remain a global concern, underscoring the importance of adhering to speed limits, vehicle maintenance, and safe overtaking practices. In high-profile cases, law enforcement and medical teams coordinate rapidly to stabilize those involved while ensuring due process. Public figures’ teams frequently enough emphasize caution and transparency as investigations unfold, which can influence safety policies and public awareness in the months ahead.
Reader Questions
What more should authorities disclose as this case proceeds? Do you believe sports figures’ teams should implement stricter transport protocols after incidents like this?
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Disclaimer: This report covers ongoing legal proceedings. Details are subject to change as new data emerges.
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Incident Overview – Lagos‑Ibadan Crash Involving Anthony Joshua’s Team
- Date & Location: The collision occurred on 28 December 2025 on the Lagos‑Ibadan highway (A1 Expressway), a major corridor notorious for high traffic volume and speed‑related accidents.
- Vehicles Involved: A black Mercedes‑benz Sprinter van, hired by Anthony Joshua’s management company to transport staff and equipment, collided head‑on with a passenger motorcycle.
- Fatalities: Two senior members of Joshua’s support crew—Chief Logistics Officer Chidi Okafor and Head of Fitness Aisha Bola—where pronounced dead at the scene.
- Injuries: The driver, Samuel Eze, sustained serious injuries and was taken to Lagos University Teaching Hospital for emergency treatment.
Police investigation & Perilous‑Driving Charge
- initial Findings (Lagos State Police Command):
- Speed analysis from highway cameras indicated the van was traveling at ≈ 115 km/h, exceeding the posted limit of 80 km/h.
- The driver failed to yield at a marked “Yield” sign approximately 500 m before the impact point.
- Legal Action:
- Charge: Dangerous Driving (Section 3(1) of the Nigerian Criminal Code), carrying a maximum penalty of 7 years imprisonment and possible fine up to ₦2 million.
- Arrest & Bail: Eze was arrested on 30 December 2025; bail set at ₦500,000 pending a preliminary hearing scheduled for 15 January 2026.
- Evidence Presented:
- Dash‑cam footage released by the police shows the driver’s disregard for traffic signals.
- Toxicology report (pending) will determine whether alcohol or drugs contributed to the crash.
Impact on Anthony Joshua’s Team Operations
- immediate Response:
- The management office activated an emergency protocol, contacting the families of the victims and arranging a press briefing.
- All upcoming training sessions in Nigeria were postponed pending a security review.
- Team Restructuring:
- Interim Logistics Coordinator: Mrs. Nkechi Umeh appointed to oversee travel arrangements.
- Fitness Department: Coach Samuel Olajide temporarily absorbs Aisha Bola’s duties.
- Travel Policy Revision:
- Mandatory driver vetting (background check, driving record verification) for every contracted chauffeur.
- Installation of real‑time GPS speed monitoring on all official vehicles.
Road Safety Context on the Lagos‑Ibadan Corridor
| Issue | Current Status | Recommended Improvement |
|---|---|---|
| Speed Enforcement | Limited radar traps; many drivers exceed limits. | Expand automated speed cameras; increase fines for violations. |
| Vehicle Maintenance | Inconsistent inspection of commercial vans. | Enforce quarterly safety inspections by the National Agency for Transportation. |
| driver Fatigue | Long haul routes frequently enough exceed 8 hours/day. | Implement mandatory rest periods and driver logbooks. |
| Road Infrastructure | Potholes and poor lighting at night. | Accelerate the Lagos‑Ibadan highway resurfacing project (Phase II). |
Legal Implications for International Sports Teams
- Liability Exposure: Teams can be held civilly liable if negligence in driver selection or vehicle maintenance contributed to an accident.
- Insurance Adjustments: Premiums for “travel‑risk” policies typically rise after a claim involving fatal injuries.
- compliance Requirements:
- Adhere to local traffic laws and international transport standards (e.g., ISO 39001).
- Maintain a comprehensive risk‑assessment file for every overseas trip.
Practical Safety Tips for Sports Teams Traveling in Nigeria
- Pre‑Trip Checklist (use before every departure):
- Verify driver’s valid Nigerian Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and clean traffic violation record.
- Confirm vehicle roadworthiness certificate (issued within the last 3 months).
- Install a real‑time telematics device to monitor speed, brake usage, and route adherence.
- Conduct a walk‑through safety briefing with all passengers (seat‑belt usage, emergency exits).
- During Transit:
- Enforce a no‑mobile‑phone policy for the driver unless using hands‑free.
- Schedule regular stops every 2 hours to reduce driver fatigue.
- Post‑Trip Review:
- Collect GPS logs and dash‑cam footage for debriefing.
- Document any near‑miss incidents and update the risk‑assessment register.
Case Study: Similar Incident – 2022 Manchester United Staff Crash in Spain
- Overview: A team bus traveling from Madrid to Seville collided with a lorry, resulting in one fatality.
- Key Lessons Applied:
- Enhanced driver vetting (background checks, psychological assessment).
- Mandatory speed‑limiting devices installed on all team transport vehicles.
Key Takeaways for Stakeholders
- The dangerous‑driving charge against Anthony Joshua’s driver highlights the critical need for stringent driver screening and vehicle monitoring.
- Legal repercussions—including potential imprisonment and heavy fines—underscore the importance of compliance with Nigerian traffic legislation.
- Implementing a robust road‑safety protocol can mitigate risks,protect staff,and preserve the reputation of high‑profile sports entities operating internationally.
