The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed the death of two persons in a road crash that occurred at noon on Monday along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The unfortunate incident involved a Nigerian-born British boxer, Mr Anthony Joshua. His vehicle was said to have rammed into a stationary truck on the expressway, killing two people on the spot.
In a statement, the Corps Public Education Officer, Mr Olusegun Ogungbemide, an Assistant Corps Marshal, said the fatal road traffic accident specifically happened around the Sinoma area near Sagamu, Ogun State.
It involved an SUV conveying the boxer, with preliminary reports from the Ogun Sector Command indicating that Lexus vehicle may have been travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit on the corridor.
According to the FRSC, the driver lost control of the vehicle during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into the stationary truck well packed by the side of the road.
“The primary causes of the crash being excessive speed and wrongful overtaking constitute serious traffic violations and remain among the leading causes of fatal road crashes on Nigerian highways,” a part of the statement alleged.
However, FRSC operatives arrived at the scene within three minutes of notification, enabling swift rescue operations, evacuation of victims, effective traffic control, and prevention of secondary crashes.
“A total of five adult males were involved in the crash. Two persons sadly lost their lives, one sustained injuries, while two others escaped unhurt. Anthony Joshua was rescued alive and sustained minor injuries.
The injured victim was evacuated for medical attention, while the remains of the deceased were conveyed to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu. The Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division (MTD) was duly notified for further investigation and necessary documentation,” another parts of the statement read.
The Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Mr Shehu Mohammed, has commiserated with the families of the deceased and wished the injured victim, Anthony Joshua a speedy recovery.
“FRSC reiterates its warning to motorists to avoid dangerous overtaking, excessive speed, and disregard for traffic regulations, particularly on high-speed corridors such as the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. Motorists are urged to exercise patience, maintain lane discipline, and prioritise safety over haste, especially during the festive travel period.
“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 noted.