- Safiu Kehinde
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the accident involving renowned Nigeria-born British boxer, Anthony Joshua, while disclosing the cause of the fatal crash along Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
NPO earlier Reported that former World champion had narrowly escaped death after his Lexus Jeep rammed into a stationary truck parked before Danco Filling Station, near the Sagamu Interchange on the Ibadan-bound axis., Ogun State.
The tragic incident claimed the lives of two other occupants of the vehicle while the boxer was rescued by emergency responders and residents of the area.
As contained in a statement issued by the FRSC Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, the incident occurred around 12pm on Monday and was promptly reported to the Ogun Sector Command of the Corps.
Preliminary reports from the command revealed that a total of five adult males were involved in the crash.
While Two persons were confirmed dead on the spot, Anthony Joshua sustained injury with two others escaping unhurt.
The boxer was evacuated for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were conveyed to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu.
Meanwhile, further preliminary findings attributed the cause of the accident to over speeding.
The Lexus Jeep, which was suspected to be travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit on the corridor, lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into a stationary truck well packed by the side of the road.
FRSC held that the primary causes of the crash, being excessive speed and wrongful overtaking constitute serious traffic violations, remain among the leading causes of fatal road crashes on Nigerian highways.
In reaction, the FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wish the injured victim, Anthony Joshua a speedy recovery.
FRSC reiterates its warning to motorists to avoid dangerous overtaking, excessive speed, and disregard for traffic regulations, particularly on high-speed corridors such as the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
It urged motorists to exercise patience, maintain lane discipline, and prioritise safety over haste, especially during the festive travel period.