Chauffeur faces charges after fatal crash involving Anthony Joshua
The chauffeur behind the wheel when Anthony Joshua’s vehicle crashed in Nigeria, killing two of the boxer’s closest friends, is now facing the prospect of spending the rest of his life behind bars, reports BritPanorama.
Adeniyi Kayode, 47, drove the heavyweight champion and his companions when their black Lexus SUV collided with a stationary lorry on December 29. The crash occurred on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway, which is notorious for accidents, as the Lexus struck the rear of a truck laden with soya beans parked illegally.
Sadly, strength and conditioning coach Sina Gami and personal trainer Latif Ayodele, both aged 36, died instantly due to the severity of the impact, which sheared off the side of the vehicle. Kayode and Joshua fortunately escaped without serious injuries.
Kayode, who has served as Joshua’s driver for over three years, appeared before magistrates in Sagamu on Friday, entering a not guilty plea to multiple charges, including dangerous driving causing death. If convicted, he faces a potential life sentence.
The circumstances surrounding the crash have raised questions, particularly as shortly before departing Lagos for Sagamu, Joshua had exchanged seats with Latif Ayodele at Kayode’s request, reportedly due to concerns about visibility. Kayode’s lawyer stated that the driver asserts the accident resulted from brake failure.
Kayode has been granted bail set at 5 million Naira, approximately £2,500, but has remained in custody until the bond is paid. Witness accounts and family statements suggest Kayode was adhering to speed limits; his son claimed, “Dad is not a fast driver,” and that he made every effort to avoid the collision.
Nigerian authorities are actively seeking the truck driver responsible for the illegal parking that contributed to the accident. Kayode is scheduled to return to court on January 20, with reports indicating that Joshua may be required to offer testimony regarding the incident. Joshua returned to the UK by private jet following the tragedy, amid speculation about his future in boxing, which has been refuted by sources close to him.
This incident underscores the harsh realities faced on Nigeria’s roads and serves as a tragic reminder of how swiftly lives can change. The interplay of celebrity and tragedy continues to grip public attention, revealing the sometimes precarious balance between fame and personal safety.
