Post by : Badri Ariffin

Authorities in Nigeria have pressed formal charges against the driver involved in a tragic accident that left British boxing star Anthony Joshua injured and claimed the lives of two essential members of his team.

Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, aged 46, was brought to the Sagamu Magistrates’ Court in Ogun State on Friday. Reports indicate that the charges against him include causing death by reckless driving and several serious traffic violations.

The tragic incident transpired on Monday on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, a crucial roadway in south-west Nigeria, when the Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and his entourage collided with a parked truck.

Both Latif Ayodele, Joshua's personal trainer, and strength coach Sina Ghami were pronounced dead at the scene. Joshua, a passenger in the vehicle, sustained injuries and was quickly hospitalized but was released on Wednesday.

According to police, Kayode is facing four charges:

• Causing death through dangerous driving

• Reckless and negligent driving

• Driving without proper care

• Operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s licence

The court has granted bail for Kayode, set at ₦5 million (roughly £2,578). He will remain in custody until all bail conditions are met, and the case is scheduled for 20 January.

Images released by the Federal Road Safety Corps of Nigeria depicted the severely damaged black SUV at the accident site, amid first responders and onlookers.

Officials from Ogun and Lagos states later issued a joint statement indicating that Joshua was "heavy-hearted" about the loss of his close friends and long-term team members.

Following his hospital discharge, Joshua visited the funeral home where Ayodele and Ghami’s bodies were being prepared for repatriation.

Hours before the accident, Joshua had posted a video on Instagram featuring him playing table tennis with Ayodele, a clip that has evoked heartfelt responses from fans globally.

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, honored the pair on social media, praising their loyalty and spirit, and sending prayers to their families and Joshua in this immensely challenging period.

Joshua, who hails from Watford, maintains close family connections to Sagamu, not far from the accident's site, where he was traveling to visit relatives for the New Year festivities.

The boxer has been in Nigeria following his recent triumph over Jake Paul on 19 December, with Paul also extending his condolences, emphasizing the value of life over boxing and offering prayers for all affected by the tragedy.

#Global News