The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says preliminary investigations suggest that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking caused the accident involving Anthony Joshua on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
The incident occurred on Monday when a Lexus Jeep carrying Joshua collided with a stationary truck near the Sinoma area, close to the Sagamu axis of the expressway.
The crash happened around 12 noon, and Joshua reportedly sustained only minor injuries.
In a statement, the FRSC noted that the vehicle was “travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit on the corridor” and “lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre” which led to the collision.
“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,” the statement said.
The corps confirmed that two persons died in the accident and have been taken to Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu.
The Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division (MTD) has been informed, and further investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash will be conducted.
“To this end, the Corps Marshal, Federal Road Safety Corps, Shehu Mohammed on behalf of the entire Management and staff of the Federal Road Safety Corps extend heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wish the injured victim, Anthony Joshua a speedy recovery,” the statement added.
Although born in England, Joshua frequently visits his hometown of Sagamu in Ogun State.
He was also in Nigeria last year, where he socialised with celebrities and presented President Bola Tinubu with a signed boxing glove.
The latest visit follows Joshua’s recent exhibition bout in Miami, where he defeated Jake Paul at the Kaseya Centre.