Ogun State to Prosecute Truck Driver in Fatal Crash Involving Anthony Joshua's Associates
The Ogun State Government has announced its intention to file criminal charges against Abubakar Adamu, the driver of a stationary truck involved in a devastating road accident that resulted in the deaths of associates of former world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua. This development marks a significant escalation in the legal proceedings surrounding the tragic incident.
Court Proceedings and Legal Consolidation
State counsel, Mr D.O. Ogunyomi, revealed this decision yesterday at the Sagamu Magistrate’s Court while formally taking over the prosecution in the case. The case also involves Adeniyi Kayode, the driver of the Lexus SUV that was transporting Joshua and his friends at the time of the collision. Ogunyomi urged the court to consolidate the charges against both Adamu and Kayode, emphasizing their respective roles in the incident.
The court was informed that legal advice from the state’s Department of Public Prosecution (DPP) recommended prosecuting Kayode for reckless driving alongside the truck driver. Magistrate Olufunmilayo Somefun granted the request for consolidation of charges and adjourned the matter to June 2, 2026, for further hearing, allowing time for the integrated legal process to proceed.
Details of the Tragic Accident
The accident occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway near the Sinoma area of Sagamu, Ogun State. The SUV carrying Joshua and three others reportedly collided with a stationary truck parked by the roadside while traveling from Lagos. Although Joshua sustained only minor injuries, the crash proved fatal for two of his close associates.
Kevin Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami lost their lives in the collision. Ghami was described as Joshua’s long-time friend and strength and conditioning coach, while Ayodele served as his personal trainer, highlighting the personal and professional impact of the tragedy on the boxing champion.
Legal Background and Previous Developments
Following the incident, the police arrested Kayode and charged him with a four-count offence, including dangerous driving causing death, as well as reckless and negligent driving. The case was subsequently forwarded to the DPP for legal advice to ensure a thorough and just prosecution.
At an earlier sitting on March 17, counsel to the DPP, Mr R.D. Kadiri, informed the court that new information had emerged and would be incorporated into the case, prompting a request for additional time to prepare. However, Kayode’s counsel, Mr Abiodun Olalekan, opposed this request, alleging that the prosecution was unnecessarily prolonging the proceedings, suggesting potential legal disputes ahead.
This case underscores ongoing concerns about road safety and legal accountability in Nigeria, particularly on major highways like the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The involvement of a high-profile figure like Anthony Joshua has brought increased public attention to the proceedings, which could influence future traffic law enforcement and prosecution standards in the region.
