|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Summary
Lagos High Court has sentenced BRT driver Andrew Ominikoron to death by hanging for the murder of Oluwabamise Ayanwola, following a conviction on charges of murder, rape, and other related offenses.
A Lagos High Court sitting at the Tafawa Balewa Square has sentenced Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) driver, Andrew Ominikoron, to death by hanging for the murder of 22-year-old fashion designer, Oluwabamise Ayanwola.
Justice Sherifat Sonaike delivered the judgment on May 2, 2025, holding that the prosecution, led by the Lagos State Government, had successfully proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Relying on the doctrine of “last seen” and the victim’s dying declarations, the court convicted Andrew Ominikoron of murder, rape, and related charges.
“In the death of Oluwabamise Ayanwola, you will be hanged by the neck until you are dead. May God have mercy upon you,” Justice Sonaike declared.
The tragic case dates back to February 26, 2022, when Bamise boarded a BRT bus at Chevron, Lekki, around 7:30 p.m. en route to Oshodi. She was alone on the bus when the driver reportedly flirted with her and allowed only two unknown men to board. Bamise grew concerned, sent voice notes and videos to a friend, and later went silent after a final message asking for prayers. Her lifeless body was found on March 7, 2022, near Carter Bridge, Lagos Island.
Andrew Ominikoron was arraigned on a five-count charge including conspiracy to commit felony, rape, sexual assault, and murder. Although he pleaded not guilty, the court found him guilty and sentenced him accordingly.
The sentencing brings a measure of justice in a case that sparked public outrage and renewed concerns about women’s safety and the need for stronger protections for women in Nigeria. Recently, Peter Nwachukwu, husband of late gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu, was sentenced to death by hanging for her murder.
