Authorities in Nigeria have released the first public photograph of Adeniyi Kayode, the 47-year-old driver accused of being involved in the road crash that left British boxing champion Anthony Joshua hospitalised and tragically killed two of his close friends.

Kayode is alleged to have been behind the wheel of a black Lexus SUV at the time of the crash. The vehicle, which was carrying Joshua and his companions, reportedly collided with the back of a stationary truck loaded with soya beans. The force of the collision caused severe damage to the SUV and resulted in fatal injuries to two passengers, both understood to be close to Joshua.

Joshua himself was taken to the hospital for treatment following the incident. Although his injuries were not believed to be life-threatening, the crash has sent shockwaves through both Nigeria and the international sporting community due to his high profile.

PHOTO RELEASE

The release of Kayode’s image marks the first time he has been publicly identified since the crash. Officials state that the photograph has been circulated as part of ongoing legal and investigative processes, and Kayode is reported to be facing the possibility of a life sentence if convicted in connection with the fatalities. Investigators are continuing to work to establish the full circumstances leading up to the collision, including the state of the vehicle, road conditions, and whether any laws were breached. Authorities have not yet released full details of their findings, but the case has already drawn widespread attention and debate.

PUBLIC AND MEDIA REACTION

Given Joshua’s global sporting status, the incident has attracted intense media coverage. Fans and fellow athletes have expressed sympathy for the families of the two men who lost their lives, as well as concern for Joshua’s recovery. Locals in the area where the crash took place have also spoken of their shock, with many calling for improved road safety measures and stricter enforcement on Nigerian highways, particularly involving large freight vehicles and passenger cars sharing poorly lit or uneven roads.

NEXT LEGAL STEPS

Kayode remains the focus of the ongoing investigation, and legal proceedings are expected to continue in the coming weeks. Authorities have urged the public not to speculate while the inquiry is still active, stressing the importance of due process. Meanwhile, tributes continue to be paid to the two men who died in the crash, described as long-standing friends and companions of the former world heavyweight champion.

As the case progresses, attention remains centred on the outcome of the investigation, and the wider questions it raises about road safety, accountability, and the devastating consequences of serious traffic collisions.