The driver behind the horrific crash that left boxing icon Anthony Joshua injured and claimed the lives of two of his closest friends has been formally charged by Nigerian police.
Driver Busted Over Deadly Lagos Smash
Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, now faces four serious charges, including causing death by dangerous driving and driving without a licence. He appeared at Sagamu Magistrate Court on Friday, where the charges were read out.
The crash ripped through the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Makun, Nigeria, on Monday, December 29. Joshua was a passenger in a Lexus SUV that crashed into a stationary truck. The boxing star escaped with minor injuries and has since left hospital, but tragedy struck hard.
Two of Joshua’s closest pals and team members, Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele and Sina Ghami, lost their lives in the smash.
Meet Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami: Joshua’s Trusted Inner Circle
- Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele: AJ’s personal trainer since 2016, and a devout Muslim convert. Latz was a constant presence in Joshua’s corner, both inside the gym and out. Just hours before the crash, he shared a lively video playing table tennis with AJ.
- Sina Ghami: The man responsible for Joshua’s strength and conditioning for over ten years. Co-founder of London’s Evolve Gym, Ghami specialised in musculoskeletal rehab and was a key figure during Joshua’s battles, including his 2017 Wembley win over Wladimir Klitschko.
Legal Action and Heartbreak After the Crash
Prosecutors say Kayode faces:
- Causing death by dangerous driving
- Reckless and negligent driving
- Driving without due care
- Driving without a valid licence
He was granted bail set at 5,000,000 Naira (£2,578), with his trial due to begin on January 20. Meanwhile, police are searching for the driver of the stationary truck involved in the deadly smash.
On New Year’s Eve, a recovering Joshua and his mother, Yeta Odusanya, visited the Lagos funeral home to say their last goodbyes.
“Rest in peace Latz and Sina. Your energy and loyalty among so many other great qualities will be deeply missed,” said Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn. “Praying for strength and guidance for all their family, friends and of course AJ during this very difficult time.”
