International law attorney, Asukwo Mendie Archibong, Esq., says the presence of a stationary trailer on a major expressway raises serious concerns about whether the Federal Road Safety Corps, (FRSC), fulfilled its legal duty to protect motorists. He explains that FRSC is legally responsible for ensuring highways are free from obvious dangers, including broken‑down or parked heavy‑duty vehicles that pose a predictable risk to fast‑moving traffic.
According to attorney Archibong, if the trailer involved in the crash had been left on the road for a significant period without reflective triangles, warning signs, or any attempt to tow it away, that could amount to a breach of FRSC’s duty of care as well as the duty of care by the owners of the trailer. “If the agency knew — or reasonably should have known — that a trailer was blocking the road and failed to act, that would be a failure to carry out its statutory responsibility,” he said. Nigerian courts have previously held government agencies liable when they failed to remove dangerous obstructions that later caused fatal accidents.
However, Archibong notes that the final determination depends on the timeline. If the trailer broke down only moments before the crash, responsibility may fall more heavily on the driver or the company that owns the vehicle. “The investigation will reveal whether this was an unavoidable tragedy or a preventable failure of road safety enforcement,” he said.
Eyewitnesses Thought It Was an Explosion
What began as an ordinary afternoon on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway turned into a scene of chaos and heartbreak. A roadside hawker who witnessed the crash said the impact was so violent that many nearby mistook it for something far worse.
Sibiat, who was selling goods along the road, said the sound shook the entire area.
“The bang from the impact jolted everyone,” she recalled. “For a moment, we thought it was a bomb blast. People started running, shouting. When we realised it was an accident, everyone rushed toward the vehicles. Some people were recording, others were trying to pull the doors open to see if anyone could be saved.”
She said panic turned to disbelief when one of the survivors cried out for help, urging bystanders to check the second vehicle.
“He kept shouting that someone inside was Anthony Joshua,” she said. “Some people didn’t believe him until another man who stopped said he knew them from Sagamu.”
According to Sibiat, the two men who died in the crash passed instantly. Joshua, she said, was conscious but in visible pain as rescuers helped him out of the wreckage.
‘We Are Praying for His Recovery’ — Joshua’s Family
Joshua’s family said the news reached them with devastating force. A relative, who spoke anonymously, said the family had been expecting to see him soon.
“The news of the crash came as a shock,” the relative said. “We are praying for his recovery. For the two men who lost their lives, we pray their souls rest in peace. He usually comes home around the New Year. We hadn’t seen him yet, so we were expecting him.”
Jake Paul Sends Prayers After Rival’s Crash
Jake Paul, who fought Joshua just 10 days earlier in a highly publicized Netflix bout, also reacted to the tragedy. Despite their rivalry, Paul expressed sympathy for Joshua and the families affected.
“Life is much more important than boxing,” Paul wrote on X. “I am praying for the lost lives, for AJ, and for anyone impacted by today’s unfortunate accident.”
Tinubu Speaks With Joshua and His Mother
President Bola Tinubu said he personally spoke with Anthony Joshua and his mother following the crash. In a statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said he offered his condolences and prayers.
“I spoke with AJ on the phone to convey my condolences over the death of his two associates,” Tinubu said. “I wished him well and prayed for him. He assured me he is receiving the best care in the hospital.”
Tinubu added that he also spoke with Joshua’s mother, who expressed gratitude for the call. The President said he was in contact with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who visited Joshua at the hospital and assured him of full support.
‘An Unfortunate Incident’ — Tinubu
In an earlier message posted on his official X account, Tinubu described the crash as a tragedy that “casts a deep shadow on this season.”
“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,” he wrote. “I sympathise with you and your family as you bear the emotional weight of this unfortunate incident.”
Tinubu praised Joshua’s courage and discipline, calling him a source of national pride.
“In moments like this, we must encourage one another as brothers and sisters,” he said. “I pray for strength, wisdom, and grace for you during this painful period. May God grant you a speedy recovery and repose to the souls of the departed.”
