BRT driver denies involvement in Bamise’s rape and murder

According to Punch, Andrew Ominikoron, the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) driver accused of raping and murdering 22-year-old fashion designer Oluwabamise Ayanwole, began his defense on Thursday. This case has drawn widespread public attention and heightened concerns about safety in public transport.Ominikoron testified before the Lagos State High Court in Tafawa Balewa Square, firmly stating, “I did not rape or kill Oluwabamise.” Continue Reading>>>...CONTINUE READING>>>

He also shared that he started working as a bus driver in September 2021.During his testimony, Ominikoron detailed his actions on February 26, 2022. He said he was on duty for an afternoon shift that started at 1 p.m., with a route from Oshodi to Ajah. After finishing a round trip, he noted that his second trip back to Ajah was around 7 or 8 p.m. He admitted to picking up passengers illegally on his return to Oshodi, a common practice among drivers referred to as “Korokpe,” which has raised concerns about safety and enforcement in Lagos’ public transport system.

Ominikoron is facing multiple serious charges, including rape, conspiracy, sexual assault, and murder. The Lagos State Government alleges that on February 26, 2022, near the Conservation Centre along the Lekki-Ajah Expressway, Ominikoron raped and then killed Ayanwole.

These accusations violate several sections of Lagos State’s Criminal Law, but Ominikoron has pleaded not guilty to all counts.In an earlier hearing on June 24, the case was delayed due to an injury Ominikoron suffered in prison. A representative from Ikoyi Correctional Centre reported that he fell in the bathroom on June 23, 2024, injuring his left leg, which caused his absence from court.continue Reading>>>

At the resumed hearing, Dr. Babajide Martins, the Director of Public Prosecutions, informed the court that the trial had been delayed since November of the previous year. He noted that the current hearing was for the defense to present its case.

The judge then asked the defense to proceed, and Ominikoron, represented by his lawyer, Abayomi Omotubora, testified that he picked up Oluwabamise at Chevron, along with three other male passengers at Agungi.The case has ignited widespread discussions on social media and public platforms about the urgent need to improve safety measures for commuters in Lagos, especially for women who face greater risks while using public transportation. Activists and community leaders are pushing for reforms to enhance accountability and protect passengers.