Anthony Joshua flies back to UK after fatal crash killed close friends | Boxing | Sport
Anthony Joshua has returned to London after the car crash in Nigeria that left him hospitalised and killed two of his close friends and team members, Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele and Sina Ghami. The Sun reports that Joshua flew back into Stanstead Airport on Friday night aboard a private jet before their funeral, which is said to be taking place at a mosque in the capital on Sunday.
Their report claims Joshua is unsure about attending, despite wanting to, because of the publicity his appearance could attract. A source told The Sun: “Anthony wants to go to the funeral, but he hasn’t decided yet; he’s mindful that his presence could cause a circus and overshadow the funeral for the family of his two friends.”
His return to the United Kingdom follows his release from Lagoon Hospital Ikoyi on Wednesday. Before leaving Nigeria, Joshua went to the morgue where Ayodele and Ghami were to pay his respects.
Local authorities confirmed his movements earlier this week, releasing a statement that said: “The governments of Lagos and Ogun states, once again, commiserate with the two families of the two young men – Latif Ayodele and Sina Ghami – who tragically and unfortunately lost their lives in the road accident involving Anthony Joshua. We pray The Almighty grant the repose of their souls while granting their families and loved ones the fortitude to bear this very sad and painful loss.
“Anthony Joshua was discharged from hospital late this afternoon though heavy hearted and full of emotions over the loss of his two close friends he was deemed clinically fit to recuperate from home. Anthony and his mother were at the funeral home in Lagos this afternoon to pay their final respects to his two departed friends as they were being prepared for repatriation scheduled for later this evening.
“Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu deeply appreciate the public concern and show of love and affection over this very sad and unfortunate incident. They also appreciate Mr President. His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, for all fatherly support he gave throughout the process.
“We also want to appreciate the team of doctors and medical personnel at the Lagoon Hospital Ikoyi that attended to Anthony and those who sustained injuries. The quality of care and professionalism is truly commendable.”
Joshua will now continue recuperating from his injuries at home. As he does so, his driver, Adeniyi Mobolaji Kayode, faces charges of causing death by dangerous driving, reckless and negligent driving, driving without due care, and driving without a valid driver’s licence.
His lawyer, Olalekan Abiodun, said: “My client has pleaded not guilty and what happened was an accident. I haven’t had a full chance to speak with him yet, but I know he is saying the brakes did not work.
“I also understand that the journey started in Lagos and that initially Anthony had got into the front seat, but the driver asked him to swap seats. He did this because Anthony is a big fellow, and he couldn’t see the wing mirror properly, so he asked him to move, and he sat behind the driver. From what I understand, Latif was in front and then changed seats with Anthony.”
