• Victims: Rehab expert Sina Ghami and trainer Latif Ayodele, a practicing Muslim and longtime aide of the boxing champion
Former heavyweight boxing champion Anthony Joshua has been involved in a road accident in Nigeria in which he sustained injuries, while two of his close friends and trainees, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele were killed, according to police and eyewitness accounts.
The accident occurred on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State on Monday , December 29, when the vehicle conveying Joshua collided with a stationary truck under circumstances that are still being investigated.
Ogun State Police confirmed that Joshua, who was seated in the rear of the vehicle, suffered minor injuries and is currently receiving medical attention.
Federal Road Safety Corps officials said preliminary findings suggest the vehicle may have been travelling above the prescribed speed limit before losing control during an overtaking manoeuvre and crashing into a stationary truck.
Tragically, the crash claimed the lives of Sina Ghami, a renowned rehabilitation specialist and Latif, also known as “Latz”, both described as Joshua’s close friends and professional associates.
As a Muslim media organisation, particular attention has been drawn to the death of Latif, 38, who was said to have accepted Islam in 2012.
He gained global attention in 2017 when a photo of him leading Anthony Joshua and another associate in prayer in Dubai went viral. Shared on the boxer’s verified Twitter handle, the image was widely celebrated by Muslims around the world as a strong symbol of faith, unity, and brotherhood.
Friends and associates have since described him as humble, disciplined and deeply committed to his faith.
The incident has sparked an outpouring of tributes across the world, particularly the sporting world and among the Muslim community, with many offering condolences and prayers for the deceased.
Reflecting on the tragedy, many have described it as a reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the certainty of return to Allah.
This clearly affirms Allah’s words in Surah Luqman, Chapter 31, where He states that only He knows where any soul will die. When the appointed time arrives, it will occur exactly as decreed.
“These brothers had just landed in Lagos and were en route to Sagamu. But since it was destined that their final moment would be in Nigeria, they made the journey with him. Allahu Akbar,” read several posts shared on social media.
While fans around the world continue to pray for the speedy recovery of Anthony Joshua, fondly called “AJ,” the Muslim community is offering heartfelt prayers for Latif ‘Latz’ Ayodele, asking Allah to grant him mercy and admit him into Jannatul Firdaus. Ameen.
Condolences are also being extended to the families of both departed team members.
Nigerian Muslim Personalities of the Year 2024/2025
Global Muslim Personalities of the Year 2024/2025
Sponsored
