The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking caused the road crash involving British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on Monday.
The Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday, following preliminary investigations by the FRSC Ogun Sector Command.
According to the statement, the accident occurred at about 12 noon around the Sinoma area near Sagamu in Ogun State. It involved a black Lexus SUV conveying Joshua and a stationary red Sinotruck parked by the roadside.
FRSC findings revealed that five adult males were involved in the crash. Two occupants were confirmed dead at the scene, one sustained injuries, while two others escaped unhurt. Joshua was rescued alive with minor injuries.
“The injured victim was evacuated for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were conveyed to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu,” the statement said.
It added that the Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division was duly notified for further investigation and necessary documentation
According to the FRSC, preliminary findings showed that the Lexus SUV was suspected to have been travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit when it lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into the stationary truck.
“The primary causes of the crash — excessive speed and wrongful overtaking — constitute serious traffic violations and remain among the leading causes of fatal road crashes on Nigerian highways,” the statement noted.
The corps also conveyed the condolences of the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, to the families of the deceased.
“On behalf of the entire management and staff of the Federal Road Safety Corps, heartfelt condolences go to the families of the deceased, and we wish the injured victim, Anthony Joshua, a speedy recovery,” the statement read.
The FRSC urged motorists to prioritise safety, warning against speeding and dangerous overtaking, particularly during the festive season. It reaffirmed its commitment to safer highways through enforcement, rescue operations and sustained public education.
“The public is reminded that the Corps remains resolute in its mandate to ensure safer roads, prompt emergency response, and sustained public education aimed at reducing road traffic crashes and fatalities across the country,” the statement added.
