President Bola Tinubu has expressed his deep condolences and support to world-renowned boxing champion Anthony Joshua (AJ), following a tragic road accident on Monday.
The accident, which occurred on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway near the Danco Filling Station in Makun, Ogun State, claimed two lives and left the heavyweight boxer with minor injuries.
In a personal statement posted on his social media pages and addressed to the sportsman, Tinubu described the incident as an immense tragedy that has overshadowed the festive season.
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He praised Joshua’s resilience and his standing as a symbol of national excellence.
“I extend my deep sympathies to you following the tragic accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, which claimed two precious lives and caused you injuries,” the President wrote.
“As a sportsman, you have always shown courage, discipline, and unwavering love for our country. These are qualities that have made you a source of national pride.”
The President prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and wished Joshua a speedy recovery, reminding the nation that “in moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters with a shared destiny.”
Backstory
The New Daily Prime earlier reported that the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and local police confirmed that the accident involved a Lexus SUV conveying the 36-year-old boxer and stationary truck parked by the roadside.
Two male foreign nationals, who were close associates and coaches of the boxer, died instantly at the scene.
Preliminary investigations by the FRSC indicated that excessive speed and wrongful overtaking were the primary factors that caused the driver to lose control during the manoeuvre.
Joshua, who was seated in the rear of the vehicle, remained conscious and stable after the crash.
He was rescued by security personnel from his convoy and taken to a specialised medical facility in Lagos for treatment of minor injuries.
The accident occurred just over a week after Joshua’s high-profile sixth-round knockout victory over YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in Miami.
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The champion, who has deep family roots in Sagamu, was in Nigeria for a holiday visit when the tragedy struck.
Promoters and fellow athletes have also sent messages of support.
For more details, visit New Daily Prime at www.newdailyprime.news
