Tinubu Mourns as Anthony Joshua Narrowly Escapes Death in Fatal Sagamu Crash That Claimed Two Lives

A cloud of grief has descended upon the sporting world, following a fatal road traffic accident involving two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua on the outskirts of Lagos.

The accident, which occurred near the Sinoma axis of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, has left the nation in shock, prompting an immediate emotional response from the Presidency. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a statement released this afternoon, expressed his deepest sympathies to the Sagamu-born boxer, acknowledging the heavy “emotional weight” Joshua must bear after the loss of two companions in the crash.

“I extend my deep sympathies to you following the tragic accident… which claimed two precious lives and caused you injuries,” President Tinubu stated. “This immense tragedy casts a deep shadow on this season. As a sportsman, you have always shown courage and unwavering love for our country qualities that make you a source of national pride.”

According to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Joshua was traveling in a black Lexus SUV as part of a two-vehicle convoy when the driver reportedly lost control during a high-speed overtaking maneuver. The vehicle smashed into a stationary red Sinotruck parked near the Danco Filling Station. While Joshua, who was seated in the rear, escaped with minor injuries, two other occupants identified as foreign nationals died instantly at the scene.

Eyewitnesses described a chaotic rescue operation, with security personnel from Joshua’s escort vehicle and FRSC officials arriving within minutes to extract the dazed champion from the wreckage. Footage circulating online shows a visibly shaken Joshua being assisted by emergency responders before being rushed to a secure hospital.

The Ogun State Government has since confirmed that the remains of the deceased have been deposited at the Livewell Morgue in Sagamu, while the Police Motor Traffic Division has launched a full-scale investigation into the “serious traffic violations” that led to the collision.

Coming just nine days after his dominant sixth-round knockout of Jake Paul in Miami, the incident serves as a grim reminder of the hazards on Nigeria’s busiest highway. As the 2025 festive season draws to a close, authorities have once again urged motorists to prioritize safety over haste to prevent further loss of life.