The driver charged in the car crash that injured boxing star Anthony Joshua and claimed the lives of two of his friends appeared before a court in Ogun State on Tuesday, as members of the boxer’s family questioned the need for a full trial.
Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, 46, was behind the wheel of a Lexus SUV carrying Joshua and his friends, Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami, when the vehicle crashed into a stationary truck along a highway near Sagamu in December. Ayodele and Ghami died at the scene, while Joshua and Kayode sustained minor injuries.
Kayode is facing multiple charges, including reckless driving and driving without a valid licence. He appeared in court wearing dark clothing and avoided the attention of journalists gathered outside the courtroom.
Speaking at the family home, Joshua’s uncle, Adedamola Joshua, said the family was grateful the boxer survived the accident but expressed doubts about the value of prosecuting the driver.
“We are very lucky that our son did not die,” he said. “But taking this man to court is something we don’t really see a reason for. Accidents can happen anywhere.”
He added, however, that public opinion in the area appears to favour prosecution, with many residents believing the driver was speeding at the time of the crash.
Officials from the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency said preliminary findings showed the vehicle was travelling at high speed and suffered a tyre burst before hitting the truck.
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Kayode’s court appearance was brief, as the judge adjourned the case until February 25 following a request by the prosecution. His lawyer, Olalekan Abiodun, said the adjournment was accepted in the interest of justice.
Ayodele was Joshua’s personal trainer, while Ghami served as his long-time strength and conditioning coach. Family members also revealed that Kayode had worked as Joshua’s driver for about three years, with no prior complaints.
Joshua, a British national of Nigerian descent, regularly visits southwestern Nigeria, where he maintains close ties with friends and family.
