See Photos from the accident that almost killed Yinka Aiyefele

It's been 17 long years and the scare remains even though his level changed for the better shortly after:

"Rejoice and thank God with me. The journey started exactly 17yrs ago, it was on Friday December 12th 1997. On my way to Abeokuta where I had that ghastly motor accident. it was indeed MY TURNING POINT. 'ODUNMBAKU.' I will for ever be grateful to you my Lord. Thank you all for your love, support and encouragement. When there is life there is hope," Ayefele said in a post on his social media account.