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Anthony Joshua’s Family Opens Up About Tragic Accident, Theft at the Scene

Published by admin on January 3rd, 2026.

Anthony Joshua’s Family Opens Up About Tragic Accident, Theft at the Scene

Adedamola Joshua, uncle to former world boxing champion Anthony Joshua, spoke to BANKOLE TAIWO about the recent accident that claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s friends, the family’s ordeal, and other related concerns.

How the Family Learned About the Accident
Adedamola said the news of the crash initially reached them through a church member, a retired Deputy Inspector General of Police, around 1 p.m. “We are not always glued to social media, so we didn’t hear about it immediately. When I got the call, it was hard to believe that Anthony was involved in an accident,” he recalled.

Family Reaction and Emotional Toll
The family was left in shock. Joshua had arrived in Nigeria just six hours prior, eager to spend time with his relatives in Sagamu. “He could have chosen to meet prominent figures in Lagos, but he prioritized family. That makes this tragedy even more painful,” Adedamola said.

Joshua’s Usual Visits
Anthony Joshua traditionally comes home during the festive season to be with family. Although the Joshua family’s annual gathering no longer takes place following the death of a coordinating elder, Joshua typically visits the Governor of Ogun State, the Akarigbo, and other dignitaries.

Parents’ Presence
Joshua’s parents largely reside in Nigeria, with his father managing local businesses. His mother travels between the UK and Nigeria to be with her son.

Concerns About Emergency Response
Adedamola criticized the slow emergency response. He described Joshua crossing the median after the crash when he should have been on a stretcher as “distressing.” He noted that, unlike in other countries where a helicopter might evacuate victims, Nigeria’s emergency services need better infrastructure, including ambulances along accident-prone roads.

Misconduct at the Scene
The uncle confirmed that bystanders had stolen Anthony Joshua’s phone during the accident. He decried the tendency of some onlookers to record videos instead of helping, calling for better public awareness and faster police response at accident scenes.

Government Support
He acknowledged the support provided by the governments of Ogun and Lagos states, as well as President Bola Tinubu, who personally checked in on Joshua and his family. “We are grateful for the assistance, but more preventive measures, like professional drivers and escorts for high-profile individuals, should be considered,” Adedamola added.

On the Driver
The uncle said he did not know the driver personally but stressed that speeding and reckless driving should be addressed to prevent similar tragedies.

Impact on the Family and Joshua’s Future
The accident cast a shadow over the family’s festive celebrations. “It’s hard to celebrate when loved ones are in hospital and others have been lost. Since our great-grandfather passed in 1964, we’ve never experienced such sorrow,” he said.

While Joshua has been discharged, the family remains deeply affected. Adedamola noted speculation about the boxer considering retirement, but emphasized that their prayers are for his continued strength and recovery.

Condolences and Prayer
The family also expressed condolences to the relatives of Joshua’s friends who died in the accident. “We pray for the souls of the departed and for the strength of all touched by this tragedy,” he said.