BRT Driver Andrew Ominikoron Sentenced to Death by Hanging for Murder of Oluwabamise Ayanwola

In a landmark judgment that has reignited conversations about women’s safety in public transportation, BRT, Justice Sherifat Sonaike of the Lagos State High Court, sitting at the Tafawa Balewa Square Annexe, has sentenced Andrew Ominikoron, a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) driver, to death by hanging for the brutal murder of 22-year-old Oluwabamise Ayanwola.

Ominikoron, who stood trial on a five-count charge of murder, rape, and conspiracy, was found guilty of multiple heinous crimes, including the sexual assault of Dr. Anosike Victoria and the rape of one Maryland Ojiezelu, in addition to the murder of Ayanwola. Despite pleading not guilty to all charges during the trial, the court found that the Lagos State Government, which prosecuted the case, had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt.

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Court Finds Ominikoron Guilty on All Charges

In her ruling delivered on Friday, Justice Sonaike offered no ambiguity in her judgment. She stated that the prosecution had successfully tied Ominikoron to the murder and sexual assault cases, emphasizing the consistency of witness testimonies, forensic evidence, and the timeline of events that placed the defendant at the scene of the crimes.

“For the death of Oluwabamise Ayanwola, you will be hanged by the neck until you are dead. May God have mercy upon you,” declared Justice Sonaike in her pronouncement.

The emotional weight of the judgment was felt throughout the courtroom, where friends, family, activists, and media representatives gathered to witness the conclusion of a case that has gripped national attention since 2022.

The Tragic Case of Oluwabamise Ayanwola

Oluwabamise Ayanwola, a 22-year-old fashion designer, went missing after boarding a BRT bus at Chevron Bus Stop in Lekki, Lagos, on February 26, 2022. She had reportedly been in communication with a friend via WhatsApp, sharing her location and expressing discomfort with the empty bus and the driver’s suspicious behavior. Her lifeless body was discovered days later on Carter Bridge, Lagos Island, sparking national outrage and protests demanding justice.

The case catalyzed widespread condemnation of Lagos State’s public transportation safety protocols, especially the lack of surveillance and accountability measures in government-run BRT buses. Many activists and advocacy groups have since pressured the Lagos State Government to improve safety standards for women and commuters.

Pattern of Predatory Behavior

Beyond the murder of Ayanwola, the court also found Ominikoron guilty of separate counts of rape and sexual assault involving two other victims, Dr. Anosike Victoria and Maryland Ojiezelu. These women came forward to testify that the defendant had assaulted them in similar circumstances, exploiting his position as a BRT driver to commit violent acts against unsuspecting passengers.

Their testimonies helped to establish a pattern of behavior, which strengthened the prosecution’s case. The prosecution, led by the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP), presented a compelling narrative of premeditation and consistent sexual violence.

Legal, Public, and Governmental Responses

Legal experts have praised the judgment as a triumph of justice and a significant step toward restoring public trust in Nigeria’s judiciary. The Lagos State Government, which has faced criticism over initial delays and missteps in handling the case, has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting citizens and prosecuting offenders without fear or favor.

The judgment also sends a clear message that crimes against women, especially those involving public officials or service workers, will not be tolerated. Human rights and gender-based violence advocates have hailed the verdict as a “moment of accountability” in a country where justice is often delayed or denied in cases of sexual violence.

Next Steps and Broader Implications

While Ominikoron still has the constitutional right to appeal the sentence, the high-profile nature of the case and the strength of the court’s ruling indicate that any future legal recourse may face an uphill battle. The judgment not only brings closure to the families of the victims but also sets a legal precedent for holding state service providers accountable for abuse of public trust.

In the broader scope, the verdict has re-energized calls for reform in public transportation, especially the need for stricter background checks for drivers, onboard surveillance systems, and rapid response mechanisms for emergencies. Lagos residents and advocacy groups have urged the government to ensure that the systemic failures which allowed Ominikoron to act unchecked are addressed.

For now, the judgment marks a long-awaited moment of justice for Oluwabamise Ayanwola and the other women whose voices were heard in court—a solemn but powerful affirmation that their suffering will not be forgotten.