In brief
A driver in Lagos, Nigeria, attempted to overtake a moving truck and crashed into a parked lorry, killing Anthony Joshua’s personal trainer and strength coach. The 46‑year‑old driver faces charges of dangerous driving and driving without a valid licence. Court hears that both victims were asleep when the accident occurred. Police have yet to obtain a statement from Joshua, whose tribute mourns the loss. The trial is set to resume on 10 September.
Fatal crash in Lagos kills Anthony Joshua’s friends
The driver of a Toyota Lexus was attempting to overtake a moving truck on a Lagos expressway when the vehicle lost control and collided with an parked lorry. The impact killed the boxer's personal trainer, Latif Ayodele, and state‑coach Sina Ghami.
A 46‑year‑old driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a valid national driver’s licence. Kayode has denied all charges.
The court was told that the group, travelling for a visit to Joshua’s father in Ogun State, had been sleeping when the crash occurred. The collision caused severe damage to the Lexus and the lorry’s load, leaving scattered debris and soya beans on the road.
Police statements said that only a logbook, painkillers and an energy drink were found in the Lexus near the driver’s side, while the lorry’s load remained in place. The stationary lorry, driven by 35‑year‑old Abubakar Adamu, was charged with obstructing traffic.
During cross‑examination, Kayode’s lawyer questioned police over the lack of a statement from Joshua. Police replied that investigations were ongoing and that they had not obtained Joshua’s contact details.
The trial is adjourned until 10 September. Joshua, who was born in Watford but has familial ties to Sagamu, posted a tribute to the deceased, describing the loss as “tough” but also emphasising the impact on their families.
Support your local community and check vehicle safety standards. Drive responsibly and maintain your license and vehicle in good condition to help prevent such tragedies from occurring again.
