Nigerian police have formally charged Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, the driver of a Lexus SUV involved in a fatal road crash that injured British professional boxer Anthony Joshua and killed two members of his training team.
Kayode appeared before the Sagamu Magistrate’s Court in Ogun State after being arraigned by the Ogun State Police Command on four criminal counts, including causing death by dangerous driving, reckless and negligent driving, driving without due care, and operating a vehicle without a valid national driver’s licence.
Two Members of Joshua’s Team Killed at Scene
The collision occurred on 29 December along the busy Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, one of Nigeria’s most heavily used transport corridors. According to police and traffic authorities, the SUV collided with a stationary truck on the roadway.
Two of Joshua’s close associates — strength and conditioning coach Sina Ghami and trainer Latif “Kevin” Ayodele — were pronounced dead at the scene. Their deaths have sent shockwaves through the boxing community, with tributes continuing to pour in from athletes and fans alike.
Speed and Unsafe Overtaking Under Investigation
Preliminary findings from the Federal Road Safety Corps and local traffic officials point to excessive speed and an improper overtaking manoeuvre as contributing factors in the crash.
Joshua, who had reportedly been travelling in the vehicle, sustained minor injuries and was taken to hospital for precautionary checks. Officials later confirmed that he was discharged after being declared clinically fit and allowed to recuperate.
The accident occurred just days after Joshua’s high-profile fight victory over Jake Paul in Miami, turning what had been a celebratory period into one marked by tragedy.
Bail Granted, Case Adjourned
Kayode was granted bail set at five million Nigerian naira, which is approximately R65,000, with two sureties required. Under the bail conditions, the accused will remain in custody until two guarantors formally commit to ensuring his attendance at future court proceedings.
The case has been postponed to 20 January as investigations continue and prosecutors prepare to proceed.
Driver Denies Reckless Driving
According to statements carried by local media and remarks from Kayode’s legal representatives, the accused has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His family and lawyer have suggested that a possible mechanical failure may have contributed to the collision.
Police investigators, however, have maintained that speed and unsafe driving remain central to their preliminary assessment. The court is expected to determine legal responsibility as the trial unfolds.
Renewed Focus on Road Safety
The fatal crash has once again highlighted longstanding safety concerns on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, a route frequently associated with serious accidents due to congestion, speeding and limited roadside safeguards.
Nigerian authorities and traffic agencies have renewed calls for stricter enforcement, improved road infrastructure and greater driver accountability to prevent similar tragedies in future.
As the legal process continues, the focus remains on accountability, justice for the victims, and the broader question of road safety on one of West Africa’s most critical highways.
