Former Super Eagles midfielder and 2013 Africa Cup of Nations champion, Ogenyi Onazi, is counting his blessings after a terrifying brush with death on the roads of Lagos.
A Harrowing Escape on Lagos Roads
The football star, aged 31, was involved in a serious car accident on Sunday, January 4, 2026. Onazi took to his Instagram account to share the frightening details and a video showing the extensive damage to the front of his Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV).
In his social media post, the former Lazio midfielder revealed that the collision was caused by another vehicle occupied by two individuals who were under the influence of alcohol. "The government has to do something about drunk people driving in Lagos. Almost lost my life last night with two drunk boys in the car," Onazi wrote, issuing a stark warning and a plea for action.
A National Hero's Plea for Safer Roads
This alarming incident has thrust the perennial issue of road safety in Nigeria, particularly in its bustling commercial capital, Lagos, back into the spotlight. Onazi's status as a national sports icon gives his call for change significant weight, highlighting that no one is immune to the dangers posed by reckless driving.
The accident is especially poignant as it comes just days after the footballer celebrated his birthday, receiving well-wishes from fellow ex-internationals like Vincent Enyeama and Peter Odemwingie. Tragically, it also follows by roughly a year the death of Onazi's sister-in-law in a separate road accident, adding a deeply personal layer to his advocacy.
Mounting Concerns and Calls for Action
Onazi's crash is not an isolated event but part of a disturbing trend of high-profile accidents in Nigeria. It comes shortly after former world heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua was injured in a December crash that claimed the lives of two of his friends.
Road safety experts consistently point to drunk driving and poor road conditions as primary causes of fatalities. They argue for a multi-pronged approach to save lives, including:
- Stricter enforcement of existing traffic laws, including increased sobriety checkpoints.
- Heavier penalties for offenders found driving under the influence.
- Public awareness campaigns to discourage drunk driving and promote seatbelt use.
- Investment in improving the nation's road infrastructure.
Current Nigerian law, as enforced by the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), stipulates fines for driving under the influence, such as ₦20,000 for exceeding the legal alcohol limit. Lagos State's own transport law goes further, prescribing penalties like vehicle impoundment, community service, or even imprisonment for violations like drinking while driving.
As the public digests another near-tragedy involving a beloved athlete, the hope is that Onazi's powerful voice will catalyze meaningful reforms to make Nigerian roads safer for all citizens.
