A chauffeur who was driving Anthony Joshua when their car crashed in Nigeria, killing two of the boxer’s friends, has appeared in court.
Adeniyi Kayode, 46, appeared at Sagamu Magistrates Court in Ogun state on Tuesday in connection with the crash, which occurred on 29 December on the Lagos-Ibadan expressway. The case was adjourned until 25 February after prosecutors requested additional time to seek legal advice.
Joshua’s personal trainer, Latif Ayodele, and strength and conditioning coach, Sina Ghami, died after the Lexus SUV they were travelling in collided with a stationary lorry. Joshua, a former world heavyweight champion, was injured in the crash and treated in hospital before being discharged two days later.
Kayode, who is facing four charges including causing death by dangerous driving, did not speak during the hearing. He arrived at court wearing a black hoodie, trousers and shoes. He was previously released on bail set at five million naira (£2,600; $3,500).
Ayodele and Ghami were pronounced dead at the scene, while Joshua, 36, was pictured being assisted from the wreckage. Following the incident, Joshua paid tribute to both men on Instagram, writing: “I didn’t even realise how special they are. I’ll just be walking with them and cracking jokes with them, not even knowing God kept me in the presence of great men.
“100% it’s tough for me, but I know it’s even tougher for their parents.”
Joshua, who was born in Watford, has family roots in Sagamu, a town close to the crash site. A family member told the BBC he was travelling there to visit relatives for New Year celebrations at the time of the incident.
Kayode has been charged with causing death by dangerous driving, reckless and negligent driving, driving without due care and attention, and driving without a valid driver’s licence.
