The family of Nigerian-British boxing star Anthony Joshua is struggling to come to terms with the sudden death of two of his close associates in a road accident, an incident that has left relatives in profound shock.
Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, revealed that the family first learned of the tragedy not through social media but via a personal phone call from a retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, who is also a church member. The call came around 1 p.m., hours after the accident occurred.
“When I heard it, it sounded unreal,” Adedamola said. “How can Anthony Joshua be involved in a road accident? It didn’t make sense at first, but sadly, it was true.”
The news hit the family especially hard because Joshua had just arrived in Nigeria a few hours earlier for a visit to Sagamu to see relatives. “He landed barely six hours earlier and was excited to be with his people. This is not his first visit home—he comes regularly—but why now? Why did this have to happen?” he questioned.
Adedamola explained that Joshua purposely avoided high-profile engagements during his visit, opting instead to spend quiet time with family. “He could have gone to meet governors or other prominent figures, but he chose family. That makes this even more painful,” he said.
The uncle also noted that Joshua’s festive visits are usually routine, as large extended family gatherings ceased years ago following the death of a senior family member who used to organise them.
Criticism of Emergency Response
Adedamola strongly criticised Nigeria’s emergency response system, describing it as poorly coordinated. He recounted seeing Joshua being moved across the road without a stretcher, a situation he argued would not occur abroad. “Overseas, emergency helicopters arrive within minutes. That level of response can save lives,” he added.
He further called for better safety measures on major highways, including the stationing of ambulances rather than focusing solely on document checks. “Checking papers is not enough. Ambulances should be on these dangerous roads,” he urged.
The uncle also condemned some bystanders at the crash site, claiming they prioritized filming over helping victims and, in some cases, stole from them. “Anthony Joshua’s phone was reportedly taken during the confusion,” he said, calling for more public awareness on emergency response protocols.
Acknowledgment of Government Efforts
Despite the criticisms, Adedamola acknowledged the swift actions of government officials after the incident. He commended Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for ensuring Joshua received prompt and adequate medical care.
He also revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally reached out to Joshua and his parents, offering support.
Regarding the driver involved in the crash, Adedamola expressed doubt about claims of reckless driving. “Saying someone was overspeeding and overtaking at the same time raises serious questions,” he said. He suggested that national figures like Joshua should have professional drivers and security escorts when in Nigeria.
Emotional Toll and Condolences
The tragedy cast a shadow over the festive season for the family. “How do you celebrate when your child is in the hospital and two young men are being taken home in body bags?” he reflected.
While expressing relief at Joshua’s recovery and discharge, he stressed the family’s ongoing trauma. “We thank God he survived, but our hearts keep returning to the fact that his two friends did not,” Adedamola said.
He concluded by extending condolences to the bereaved families. “On behalf of the Joshua family at home and abroad, we mourn with the families of our beloved son’s friends whose lives were cut short. May their souls rest in perfect peace,” he said.
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