Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly expressed his condolences following a tragic road accident involving Nigerian-British boxing champion, Anthony Joshua. The fatal crash, which occurred on Monday, December 29, 2025, on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, resulted in the death of two individuals while Joshua escaped with minor injuries.
Details of the Tragic Accident
The collision happened in the Makun area of the expressway, which falls under Ogun State. According to eyewitness reports, the vehicle carrying the two-time world heavyweight champion collided with another car under circumstances that authorities are still working to determine. The impact was sudden, leaving little time for other motorists to react.
Emergency responders and bystanders rushed to the scene to assist the victims. It was noted that Anthony Joshua remained at the location after the crash and participated in initial efforts to help the injured before the arrival of official authorities. This immediate response highlighted the chaotic and somber moments following the impact.
Political and Public Reaction
Atiku Abubakar, in a statement shared on social media shortly after news of the accident broke, extended his sympathy to the Ogun-born boxer. He also mourned the two individuals who lost their lives in the devastating incident. His message struck a compassionate tone, focusing on the human tragedy rather than political discourse.
The former vice president's post prompted an outpouring of reactions from Nigerians online. Many of his supporters joined in expressing their grief and concern. One commenter, Nwaorie Ndubuisi, lamented the frequency of avoidable road accidents in the country, especially during festive periods. Another user, Simple Life Note, described it as a deeply painful moment that underscores the fragility of life.
Other reactions pointed to broader issues. A user named Thinggummy suggested that certain "Nigerian factors," like the presence of unfit vehicles on roads, contributed to the accident being unavoidable. Meanwhile, Olawale connected the tragedy to the state of infrastructure, stating, "Ogun State has A1+ with bad roads." Bayo Adegboyega commended Atiku for his compassionate approach, contrasting it with potential political opportunism from others.
Context and Aftermath
This accident comes shortly after Anthony Joshua's notable sporting achievement, where he secured a sixth-round knockout victory over Jake Paul in Miami, ending a year-long wait for a win. The contrast between that professional high and this personal tragedy has been stark for the athlete and his supporters.
The Ogun State government has also reportedly reacted to the incident, though the focus remains on the loss of life and the miraculous escape of the boxing icon. The investigation into the exact cause of the collision on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway is ongoing, with authorities expected to provide more details in the coming days.
This event has once again brought national attention to the critical issues of road safety and infrastructure maintenance in Nigeria, even as the nation mourns with the families of the deceased and wishes Anthony Joshua a full recovery.
