By ebosele@hotmail.com
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has attributed Monday’s fatal road traffic crash along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway to excessive speed and wrongful overtaking, describing both as major traffic violations and leading causes of deadly accidents on Nigerian highways.
The crash, which occurred on Monday, December 29, 2025, around the Sinoma area near Sagamu in Ogun State, involved a Lexus Jeep conveying world-renowned boxer, Anthony Joshua, and a stationary commercial truck.
According to a statement issued by the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, preliminary reports from the Ogun Sector Command revealed that the incident occurred at about 12:00 noon and was promptly reported to the FRSC. Operatives arrived at the scene within three minutes, enabling swift rescue operations, evacuation of victims, traffic control and prevention of secondary crashes.
The statement explained that two vehicles were involved in the crash: a black Lexus Jeep with registration number KRD 850 HN (private) and a stationary red Sinotruck with an unknown registration number. A total of five adult males were involved. Two persons lost their lives, one sustained injuries, while two others escaped unhurt.
Anthony Joshua was rescued alive and reportedly sustained minor injuries. The injured victim was evacuated to a medical facility for treatment, while the remains of the deceased were deposited at Livewell Morgue, Ajaka, Sagamu. The Nigeria Police Motor Traffic Division (MTD) was also notified for further investigation and documentation.
FRSC’s preliminary findings indicated that the Lexus Jeep was suspected to have been travelling beyond the legally prescribed speed limit. The vehicle reportedly lost control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashed into the stationary truck, which was properly parked by the roadside.
“The primary causes of the crash are excessive speed and wrongful overtaking. These are serious traffic violations and remain among the leading causes of fatal road crashes on Nigerian highways,” the Corps stated.
The Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, on behalf of the management and staff of the FRSC, expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and wished Anthony Joshua and the injured victim a speedy recovery.
FRSC reiterated its warning to motorists to desist from dangerous overtaking, speeding and disregard for traffic regulations, especially on high-speed corridors such as the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway. Motorists were urged to exercise patience, maintain lane discipline and prioritise safety over haste, particularly during the festive travel period.
The Corps assured the public of its continued commitment to safer roads, prompt emergency response and sustained public education aimed at reducing road traffic crashes and fatalities nationwide.
