The family of world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, has raised concerns over their inability to visit him following a tragic road accident along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on Monday.
Speaking with journalists at the family residence in Ijokun, Sagamu, on Tuesday, Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, said the incident came as a shock to the family, who only became aware after receiving several calls from friends and associates.
He explained that the boxer, who visits Nigeria several times each year—particularly during festive periods—was expected to be with family, making the news even more distressing.
According to him, although the family has been in contact with Joshua’s parents, who are currently in Nigeria, they have not been granted access to the undisclosed medical facility where the boxer is receiving treatment.
“We are anxious to see him, even if only a few of us are allowed. However, we understand the need for caution due to his status,” he said.
The accident claimed the lives of two close associates of the boxer—Ayodele Kelvin Olu, a 36-year-old Nigerian-British national, and Gami Sina, also 36, a British citizen. The family expressed deep sorrow over the loss and offered prayers for the bereaved families.
Meanwhile, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) said it is awaiting the outcome of a detailed technical investigation into the crash.
FRSC spokesperson, Olusegun Ogungbemide, disclosed that preliminary findings suggest excessive speed may have contributed to the accident, which occurred around noon near the Sinoma area of Sagamu.
He explained that although no speed detection device was present at the crash point, the severity of the impact—between a Lexus SUV and a stationary truck—indicated that the vehicle may have been travelling above the speed limit.
Five adult males were reportedly involved in the crash, with two confirmed dead at the scene. Emergency responders arrived within minutes, Ogungbemide added.
The incident has drawn widespread reactions from political leaders and community groups. Former Ogun State governorship candidate, Oladipupo Adebutu, described the crash as heartbreaking, while the Sagamu Youth Association prayed for Joshua’s recovery and comfort for the grieving families.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan also expressed sympathy, calling attention to the need for improved road safety infrastructure nationwide, including emergency response systems and rest stations.
Following the accident, officials including Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and representatives of the British High Commission reportedly monitored Joshua’s condition. President Bola Tinubu was also briefed and personally reached out to the boxer and his mother.
As investigations continue, the family and the public await further updates on Joshua’s condition and the outcome of the FRSC probe.
