The family of world-renowned Nigerian-born British boxer, Anthony Joshua, has finally spoken out following the tragic car accident that claimed the lives of two of his close associates. The incident, which occurred on the busy Lagos-Ibadan expressway in Ogun State, has left the family in a state of distress and confusion regarding the boxer's exact whereabouts for medical treatment.
Family's Frantic Search and Public Appeal
In an emotional interview with BBC Pidgin, the boxer's uncle, Adedamola Joshua, broke the family's silence. He expressed profound sadness and revealed a critical point of concern: the family does not know which hospital Anthony Joshua was taken to after the crash. He detailed how the family received the devastating news and the immediate steps they took.
"It is very sad news to us because he always comes down whenever there is festivity to stay with us," the uncle stated, highlighting Joshua's strong connection to his Nigerian roots. He further explained, "We don't know the actual hospital that he's been taken to. We have gone round all hospitals in Shagamu." This admission has raised significant alarm among fans and the public about the post-accident logistics and emergency response.
Details of the Ghastly Accident
The accident, which took place on December 31, 2025, involved the car carrying Joshua, his two associates, and a driver. Reports confirm that the vehicle collided with a stationary truck on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. Tragically, the two associates lost their lives in the impact.
Anthony Joshua himself sustained what have been described as minor injuries. In a detail that has sparked widespread discussion about Nigeria's emergency services, it was reported that Joshua was transported from the scene to a hospital in a police van, as no ambulance was readily available at the time of the incident.
Netizens React with Grief and Criticism
The family's interview and the circumstances of the accident have triggered a wave of reactions on social media. Many netizens expressed sympathy for Joshua's loss and trauma, while others focused on the systemic failures highlighted by the event.
User @rukky8t commented, "May his friends' soul rest in peace and thank God for sparing his life. He will be traumatized for his entire life." Another user, @_queendom_, reflected on the personal tragedy, writing, "I just cannot imagine the grief that's consuming him rn. You on holiday with friends and they aren't returning back to the UK with you. Jesus."
The emergency response, or lack thereof, became a major point of contention. User @blecoma criticized the system, stating, "The fact that there was no ambulance was very sad... No emergency number to call. First aid and emergency number should be written on train station and airport." This sentiment echoes concerns raised by journalist Rufai Oseni, who previously posed critical questions about the rescue operation, generating further buzz online.
Amidst the confusion, some comments, like one from @aestheticscourse, claimed that "AJ’s mum rushed to the hospital so she knows where he is," presenting a conflicting narrative to the family's public statements of uncertainty.
As the situation develops, the primary focus remains on Anthony Joshua's recovery and the well-being of the families who lost loved ones. The incident has undeniably cast a spotlight on road safety and emergency medical services on one of Nigeria's busiest highways.
