candidate Peter Obi has criticised the federal government over reports that an ambulance was reportedly absent at the scene of a crash involving Nigerian-British boxer Anthony Joshua.

Obi shared his thoughts while sending prayers and goodwill messages to the Ogun-born athlete and mourning the loss of two of Joshua’s friends who died in the accident.

The crash occurred in the Makun area along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway in Ogun State. Eyewitnesses said the vehicle carrying the two-time world champion collided with another car under circumstances that remain under investigation. Emergency responders and bystanders reportedly rushed to help, with Joshua assisting injured victims before authorities arrived. Two people were confirmed dead, while Joshua suffered only minor injuries.

Obi, who is also a 2027 presidential hopeful, said the incident raised broader concerns about Nigeria’s emergency response system. He said, “Many of us are compelled to reflect on reports that no ambulance was readily available to convey him to the hospital.” He prayed for Joshua’s quick recovery and paid tribute to the two victims, including Sina Ghami, a sports and exercise rehabilitation specialist and part of Joshua’s team.

The comments prompted a wide range of reactions from Nigerians on social media. Some questioned Obi’s political intentions. Masterpiece wrote, “According to official reports from the FRSC, they arrived at the spot just three minutes after being notified. Police officers with him had already taken him to the hospital using their Hilux. What more should the government have done?”

Others focused on the broader systemic issues. Abhijit Pathak shared a clip of Joshua reflecting on the fragility of life, adding, “If you truly care, tell me: what is your concrete plan to fix emergency response systems and rehabilitate our highways?”

Experts note that the debate highlights long-standing concerns about road safety and emergency preparedness in Nigeria. Dr. Tunde Olawale, a public safety analyst, said, “While accidents can occur unexpectedly, the ability to respond swiftly can mean the difference between life and death. Public scrutiny of emergency systems can help push reforms that prevent further tragedies.”

Obi’s comments, combined with eyewitness accounts and social media reactions, underscore the ongoing public discussion about government accountability, road safety, and emergency services in Nigeria