A Magistrates’ Court sitting in Sagamu, Ogun State, has granted bail to Adeniyi Kayode, the driver involved in the tragic road accident that claimed the lives of two aides of former world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua.
Kayode was admitted to bail in the sum of ₦5 million with two sureties, while the court adjourned the case to February 25, 2026, for continuation of proceedings.
The 46-year-old defendant is standing trial in connection with the fatal crash that led to the deaths of Latif Ayodele, Anthony Joshua’s personal trainer, and Sina Ghami, his strength and conditioning coach. Akahi News gathered that the ruling followed arguments from both the prosecution and defence during the hearing.
Charges Against the Driver
Kayode was first arraigned on January 2, 2026, before Magistrate Olufunilayo Somefun, where he was charged on four counts bordering on:
- Dangerous driving resulting in death
- Reckless and negligent driving
- Driving without due care causing bodily harm and property damage
- Operating a vehicle without a valid national driver’s licence
The offences are said to contravene relevant provisions of the Federal Highway Act, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, as applicable in Ogun State.
Legal observers note that such charges, when proven, attract stiff penalties aimed at discouraging reckless behaviour on Nigerian highways, particularly along busy corridors such as the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway.
Court Proceedings and Legal Arguments
During the hearing, the prosecuting counsel, Nijiwe Richard, requested an adjournment to enable the case file to be forwarded to the Ogun State Attorney-General’s Office through the Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for legal advice.
However, defence counsel, Abiodun Olalekan, opposed the request, informing the court that the defence was fully prepared to proceed with the case without delay.
Despite the objection, the magistrate upheld the prosecution’s application, granted the adjournment, and approved bail for the defendant under strict conditions. Akahi News learnt that the court emphasised the need for due legal process to ensure proper guidance from the DPP before substantive trial proceedings continue.
How the Tragic Accident Happened
The fatal accident occurred on December 29, 2025, along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, when a Lexus SUV conveying Anthony Joshua, Kayode, and the two aides reportedly collided with a stationary truck.
While Joshua and the driver sustained minor injuries, Ayodele and Ghami were pronounced dead at the scene. Joshua was later discharged from hospital after being certified medically fit.
In the days that followed, the boxing star reportedly visited a funeral home in Lagos with his mother to pay his last respects before the remains of his aides were flown to the United Kingdom. Funeral prayers were subsequently held on January 4, 2026, in London, as tributes poured in from the global boxing community.
Broader Implications for Road Safety
Analysts believe the case once again highlights the persistent dangers on major Nigerian highways, particularly the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway, which has recorded several high-profile accidents in recent years.
Road safety advocates continue to call for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations, improved road signage, proper truck parking zones, and regular vehicle inspections to reduce avoidable tragedies. Akahi News gathered that stakeholders are urging authorities to treat the matter as a wake-up call for comprehensive road safety reforms.
With the matter adjourned to February 25, 2026, the next phase of the trial will depend on legal advice from the DPP. Observers noted that the outcome could set an important precedent on accountability in fatal traffic cases involving public figures and high-profile incidents.
For continuous updates and in-depth coverage of this case and other national developments, stay connected with Akahi News.
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