Anthony Joshua, the renowned British boxer and former two-time world heavyweight champion, made a public statement following a tragic road traffic accident in Nigeria that occurred on December 29, 2025. As a result of this incident, two of his close friends – Sina Gami and Latif Ayodele – lost their lives.
The accident took place on the Lagos–Ibadan highway when Joshua, heading to visit relatives for the New Year holidays, was in the car with friends. Although the athlete survived, his companions, who were part of his training team, did not.
On January 4, 2026, Joshua posted two photographs on his social media: one showing him surrounded by his family with his mother, and the other with the relatives of his deceased friends. He added a short caption "My Brother's Keeper," marking his first public address after the tragedy.
According to the Nigerian Traffic Control Agency (TRACE), the primary cause of the accident was a blown tire at high speed during an overtaking maneuver, which led to a loss of control and a collision with a parked truck. Authorities confirmed that speeding also played a significant role in this incident.
The driver of the vehicle, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, was charged with dangerous driving resulting in death, as well as driving without a valid license. The court set bail at £2,500 (approximately 5 million naira), and a hearing for the case is scheduled for January 20, 2026.
Upon returning to the UK, Joshua participated in the funeral services and farewell ceremonies for the deceased, which took place at the Central Mosque in London. Hundreds of people came to pay their respects to Sina Gami and Latif Ayodele.
