Political activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has renewed his criticism of Nigeria’s political leadership, using the recent fatal road accident involving world boxing champion Anthony Joshua and his associates in Ogun State to highlight what he described as deep-rooted governance failures.
The accident, which reportedly claimed the lives of two of Joshua’s friends, has drawn widespread attention due to the boxer’s global profile.
Sowore, however, said the tragedy should prompt broader national reflection on road safety, emergency response, and institutional neglect rather than focus solely on Joshua’s survival.
In a statement shared on his official social media platforms, Sowore disclosed that he had previously warned Joshua against aligning with Nigeria’s political leadership, which he described as “rotten.”
He said his position remains unchanged.
“Yesterday or indeed today is not a time to gloat over the horrific accident that nearly claimed the life of international boxing icon Anthony Joshua,” Sowore wrote.
“Tragically, it did take the lives of his associates and possibly the driver involved.
Their deaths must not be reduced to mere footnotes in the survival of a celebrity.”
Sowore argued that while the incident attracted attention because of Joshua’s fame, similar fatal accidents occur daily across Nigeria with little public notice.
He blamed weak institutions, poor road infrastructure, and ineffective emergency services for the recurring loss of lives on the nation’s highways.
“These kinds of fatal accidents are the daily, naked reality of a nation that has failed in small things and in big ones alike,” he stated.
“A country where road safety agencies and the police cannot provide even the most basic first aid.”
He further criticised the absence of functional emergency infrastructure, including ambulances, trained responders, and air rescue services, noting that many victims die not only from accidents but from delayed or nonexistent medical intervention.
According to Sowore, the tragedy underscores the need for fundamental national change rooted in accountability, competence, and respect for human life.
“This is why we must work sincerely and relentlessly toward a revolution—one rooted in dignity, competence, and the sanctity of human life,” he said.
Reflecting on his past interaction with the boxing star, Sowore said he had cautioned Joshua years ago about the risks of associating with political leaders he believes have failed the country.
“I spoke frankly to Anthony Joshua years ago about the danger of aligning with Nigeria’s rotten leadership,” he wrote.
“It was an unpopular warning at the time, and many dismissed it. Time, however, has a way of validating uncomfortable truths.”
Sowore concluded by urging Joshua and other influential figures to distance themselves from Nigeria’s political elite, arguing that public icons should not legitimise what he described as systemic dysfunction.
He also extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the accident.
