Anthony Joshua’s driver charged after Nigeria crash kills two team members

Anthony Joshua’s driver has been charged following a road traffic collision in south-west Nigeria that left two members of the former heavyweight champion’s team dead and the boxer himself injured, police have confirmed, Sport360NG reports.

Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, appeared at the Sagamu Magistrates’ Court on Friday, where he was charged in connection with the crash. Police sources said the counts include causing death by dangerous driving, alongside reckless and negligent driving, driving without due care and attention, and driving without a valid licence.

The incident occurred on Monday on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Ogun state, near the town of Sagamu, when the Lexus SUV in which Joshua was travelling struck a stationary truck.

Joshua’s personal trainer, Latif Ayodele, and strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, were pronounced dead at the scene. The 36-year-old boxer was taken to hospital with injuries and was discharged on Wednesday.

Mr Kayode was granted bail in the sum of 5,000,000 naira (£2,578) but was remanded in custody pending fulfilment of the bail conditions. The case has been adjourned until 20 January.

Authorities in Ogun and Lagos states said in a joint statement that Joshua was “heavy-hearted” following the deaths of Mr Ayodele and Mr Ghami, both described as close friends. After leaving hospital, the boxer visited the funeral home where their bodies were being prepared for repatriation, the statement added.

Just hours before the crash, Joshua had shared a video on Instagram showing him playing table tennis with Mr Ayodele.

Tributes have continued to be paid to the two men. On Wednesday, Joshua’s long-time promoter Eddie Hearn wrote on Instagram: “Rest in peace Latz and Sina. Your energy and loyalty, among so many other great qualities, will be deeply missed. Praying for strength and guidance for all their family, friends and of course AJ during this very difficult time.”

Joshua, who was born in Watford, has family roots in Sagamu and was travelling to the area to visit relatives for New Year celebrations, a family member told the BBC. He had been in Nigeria following his victory over American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on 19 December.

Paul also offered his condolences, posting on X: “Life is much more important than boxing. I am praying for the lost lives, AJ and anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”