The Nigerian Presidency has moved swiftly to debunk a widely circulated photograph suggesting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally visited Nigerian-British boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, in a hospital in Ogun State.
Presidency Issues Clarification on Fake Hospital Visit
In a statement on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the presidency categorically denied the authenticity of the viral image. Dada Olusegun, the Special Assistant to the President on Social Media, urged the public to disregard the picture, which purported to show President Tinubu with the boxer at an undisclosed medical facility.
The clarification became necessary after the photo gained traction online, creating a false narrative about the President's whereabouts and actions following the boxer's tragic accident.
Recap of the Tragic Accident and Presidential Phone Call
The need for the denial stems from a real and tragic event. Recall that Anthony Joshua was involved in a fatal road accident on Monday, December 29, 2025. The incident occurred in the Makun area along the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State.
The vehicle carrying the two-time world heavyweight champion reportedly collided with another car. Tragically, the accident claimed the lives of two of Joshua's friends who were traveling with him. Joshua himself sustained what were described as minor injuries.
While the viral photo of a physical visit was fake, President Tinubu had indeed reached out to the boxer. Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga confirmed via his X handle (@aonanuga1956) that the President held a telephone conversation with both Joshua and his mother.
"I spoke with AJ on the phone to personally convey my condolences over the death of his two associates. I wished him well and prayed for him. He assured me that he is receiving the best care in the hospital," the President's message read. He also noted speaking with Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, who was at the hospital, to ensure Joshua received optimal care.
Public Reactions to the Presidency's Denial
The presidency's denial has sparked a wave of reactions from Nigerians on social media, with many criticizing the spread of misinformation.
One user, Jambito, pointed out the geographical impossibility, noting the President was abroad. Another commenter, Abiodun Tunde, suggested the image was AI-generated, a growing concern in the digital age. Yusuf condemned the creators of the fake news for targeting gullible individuals, while Ali-Onemessage stated that every sensible person could see the image was fabricated.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of fake news and digitally manipulated content, even involving the highest offices in the land.
In related news, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was among other prominent Nigerians who sympathized with Anthony Joshua, mourning the loss of lives in the accident and wishing the boxer a speedy recovery.
