FRSC Blames Speed, Overtaking for Joshua Crash

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has confirmed that British-Nigerian boxing star Anthony Joshua survived a fatal road crash on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway on Monday, blaming “excessive speed” and “wrongful overtaking” for the accident that claimed two lives.

According to a statement issued by the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, the crash occurred around the Sinoma area near Sagamu, Ogun State, at about 12:00 p.m. on Monday, 29 December 2025. The incident involved a black Lexus Jeep conveying Joshua and a stationary red Sinotruck parked by the roadside.

FRSC said operatives of the Ogun Sector Command arrived at the scene within three minutes of receiving the report, allowing for rapid rescue efforts, evacuation of victims, traffic control, and prevention of secondary crashes on the busy highway. The crash involved five adult male occupants.

ADVERTISEMENT

Out of the five, two persons died on the spot, one sustained injuries, while two others were unharmed. Joshua, who was in the Lexus Jeep with registration number KRD 850 HN, was rescued alive with what the Corps described as “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 noted, adding that the Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division (MTD) had been duly informed for further investigation and documentation.

Preliminary investigation by the FRSC indicates that the Lexus Jeep was suspected to be travelling above the legally prescribed speed limit when its driver lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and rammed into the stationary truck, which the Corps said was “well parked” 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,” the Corps stated.

Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed, on behalf of the Management and staff of the FRSC, extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished Joshua and the injured victim a speedy recovery. He used the incident to renew calls for safer driving culture, especially during the busy festive travel period.

FRSC reiterated its warning to motorists to shun dangerous overtaking, excessive speed, and disregard for traffic regulations, particularly on high-speed corridors such as the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. The Corps urged drivers to exercise patience, maintain lane discipline, and prioritise safety over haste.

Reaffirming its mandate, the Corps said it remains committed to ensuring safer roads, prompt emergency response, and continuous public education aimed at reducing crashes and fatalities across the