The Lagos High Court sitting at the Tafawa Balewa Square has convicted and sentenced to death, a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) driver, Andrew Ominikoron, for the murder of a 22-year-old fashion designer, Bamise Ayanwola.
In a judgment that lasted over two and half hours, Justice Serifat Sonaike held that the prosecution, the Lagos State Government, successfully proved beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant committed the offence.
*Key Details of the Case:*
– *Bamise’s Disappearance*: Bamise boarded Ominikoron’s BRT bus at the Ajah axis of Lagos but never reached her destination. Her disappearance sparked public outrage and a widespread search.
– *Body Discovery*: Nine days later, her lifeless body was found on Carter Bridge in Lagos Island.
– *Charges*: Ominikoron faced a five-count charge bordering on conspiracy to commit felony, rape, murder, and sexual assault.
– *Conviction*: Justice Sonaike relied on the doctrine of “last seen” and Bamise’s dying declaration to establish Ominikoron’s guilt.¹ ²
*Additional Sentences:*
– *Life Imprisonment*: Ominikoron was sentenced to life imprisonment for raping Ojiezelu Maryjane, another passenger.
– *14 Years Imprisonment*: He was sentenced to 14 years in prison for attempted rape of Bamise.
– *3 Years Imprisonment*: Ominikoron received a three-year sentence for sexually assaulting Dr. Anosike Victoria.
