Juliana Agbo, Abuja, Nigeria
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking were responsible for the road crash involving British-Nigerian boxing star, Anthony Joshua, on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
In a statement, the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, said investigations showed that the crash occurred around 12 noon on Monday near the Sinoma area of Sagamu, Ogun State.
According to the FRSC, the accident involved a black Lexus SUV conveying Joshua and a stationary red Sinotruck parked by the roadside.
The statement explained that preliminary findings by the FRSC Ogun Sector Command revealed that five adult males were involved in the crash, adding that two occupants died instantly.
It further disclosed that one person sustained injuries, while two others escaped without harm, noting that Joshua was rescued alive with minor injuries.
The statement added, “The injured victim was evacuated for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were conveyed to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu.
“The Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division was duly notified for further investigation and necessary documentation.”
Providing more details, the FRSC stated that preliminary investigations indicated that the Lexus Jeep was suspected to have been travelling above the legally permitted speed limit when it lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into the stationary truck.
“The primary causes of the crash being excessive speed and wrongful overtaking constitute serious traffic violations and remain among the leading causes of fatal road crashes on Nigerian highways,” the statement said.
The Corps also conveyed the condolences of the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, saying, “On behalf of the entire Management and staff of the Federal Road Safety Corps, heartfelt condolences go to the families of the deceased, and we wish the injured victim, Anthony Joshua, a speedy recovery.”
The FRSC urged motorists to place safety above haste, cautioning against speeding and dangerous overtaking, especially during the festive season.
It reaffirmed its commitment to safer roads through strict enforcement, effective rescue operations and sustained public education.
“The public is reminded that the Corps remains resolute in its mandate to ensure safer roads, prompt emergency response, and sustained public education aimed at reducing road traffic crashes and fatalities across the country,” the statement added.
