The Ogun State Government has confirmed that two of the victims who died in the road accident involving world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, were foreign nationals.
The incident occurred shortly after 11 am on Monday.
An eyewitness, who was at the scene, said the crash happened just before the Danco Filling Station in Makun, ahead of the Sagamu Interchange on the Ibadan-bound axis.
He stated that the Lexus Jeep carrying Joshua, with number plate KRD 850 HN, collided with a stationary truck.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Special Adviser to Ogun State Governor on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, the state government expressed condolences to the families, friends and associates of the deceased.
Providing additional details, Akinmade said, “The fatal accident occurred along the busy Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, within the Makun axis of Ogun State, and sadly claimed the lives of two persons.
“Anthony Joshua and three other individuals were reportedly travelling from Lagos to Sagamu at the time of the incident.
“Preliminary reports indicate that two male foreign nationals died on the spot. Their remains have since been deposited at the Livewell Morgue in Sagamu.”
The statement further noted that Joshua and the driver of the vehicle were rescued by security personnel attached to his convoy and taken to a hospital, where they are currently receiving medical attention.
“The sport utility vehicle conveying the occupants was said to have rammed into a stationary truck along the expressway.
“While the severely damaged vehicle has been evacuated to the Sagamu Motor Traffic Division (MTD) office, efforts are ongoing to tow the truck involved to the same location to facilitate a comprehensive investigation,” it added.
Describing the incident as “deeply unfortunate and painful,” the state government said the loss of lives was devastating, even as other victims sustained varying degrees of injuries and were receiving medical care.
The government urged motorists to exercise caution and comply strictly with traffic regulations, particularly during the festive season when traffic volume is usually high.
It also called on road safety officers and other security agencies to intensify surveillance and enforcement across the state.
“Our hearts go out to the bereaved families who lost their loved ones in this tragic incident,” the statement added, while praying for the repose of the souls of the deceased and the speedy recovery of those injured.
