In a powerful testament to faith and survival, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has publicly addressed the miraculous escape of British-Nigerian boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, from a deadly road accident.
Divine Intervention on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
Pastor Adeboye spoke during the church's monthly thanksgiving service held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at the Redemption City in Ogun State. He reflected on the tragic event that occurred on Monday, December 29, 2025, along the notoriously busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. The accident claimed the lives of two of the pastor's close associates who were traveling with the boxer.
The revered cleric attributed Joshua's survival solely to the mercy of God, dismissing any notion of human cleverness or chance. He anchored his message on the scripture Lamentations 3:22–23, which states that it is by the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed.
"I read in the newspapers yesterday that our boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, exchanged seats with someone before the accident," Pastor Adeboye recounted. "The people he exchanged seats with died. I don't know why, but the mercy of God said someone would still be alive today."
Official Report and Family Reaction
Following the crash, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) provided details on the primary causes of the incident. Olusegun Ogungbemide, the Assistant Corps Marshal and Public Education Officer, confirmed the crash occurred in Ogun state. While the specific causes were mentioned in the original report, the focus remained on the tragic loss of life and Joshua's narrow escape.
The boxer's family also broke their silence in the aftermath of the ghastly event. Joshua's uncle revealed the initial confusion surrounding the boxer's whereabouts, stating they did not know which hospital he had been taken to immediately after the accident. This disclosure sparked widespread reactions and concern from netizens across social media platforms.
A Broader Message on Safety and Fate
Pastor Adeboye's commentary extends beyond a single incident, serving as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the perceived role of divine grace in daily preservation. His sermon highlighted a narrative familiar to many Nigerians, where survival on the nation's roads is often viewed through a lens of spirituality and fortune.
The accident involving a global sports icon like Anthony Joshua has brought renewed attention to road safety issues on one of Nigeria's most critical highways. It underscores a continuing national conversation about infrastructure, driver behavior, and the preciousness of life, often punctuated by such high-profile tragedies.
