The Ogun State Government has expressed deep sorrow over a fatal road accident along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway that claimed two lives and involved world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, who narrowly escaped death.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, the state described the incident as “deeply unfortunate and painful,” noting that it resulted in the loss of precious lives and injuries to others.
“The Ogun State Government expresses profound condolences to the families, friends and associates of the victims of the tragic road accident involving world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua,” the statement said.
The crash occurred within the Makun axis of the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway as Joshua and three other individuals were reportedly travelling from Lagos to Sagamu. Preliminary reports indicate that the sport utility vehicle (SUV) conveying them rammed into a stationary truck along the highway.
According to the government, two male foreign nationals died on the spot, while Anthony Joshua and the driver were promptly rescued by security personnel attached to his convoy and rushed to a hospital for medical attention.
“Preliminary reports indicate that two male foreign nationals lost their lives instantly, while Anthony Joshua and the driver of the vehicle were rescued and taken to a hospital, where they are currently receiving medical care,” Akinmade stated.
The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the Livewell Morgue in Sagamu, while the badly damaged SUV has been evacuated to the Sagamu Motor Traffic Division (MTD) office. Authorities said efforts were ongoing to tow the truck involved to the same location to aid a thorough investigation.
Describing the incident as a collective loss to the state, the government said, “This tragic occurrence is deeply painful, particularly with the loss of lives, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries.”
The Ogun State Government also used the occasion to caution motorists to be more vigilant on the roads, especially during the festive season when traffic volume is usually high.
“Motorists are urged to exercise utmost caution and adhere strictly to traffic regulations, while road safety officers and security agencies are enjoined to intensify surveillance and enforcement across the state to ensure the safety of lives and property,” the statement added.
While mourning the victims, the government offered prayers for the bereaved families and the injured. “Our hearts go out to the families who lost their loved ones in this devastating incident. We pray for the repose of the souls of the departed and for the speedy recovery of those injured. May God grant the families the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Akinmade said.
