The family of the late 22-year-old fashion designer, Oluwabamise Ayanwola, has expressed relief following the conviction and sentencing of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) driver Andrew Nice Ominikoron, who was found guilty of her rape and murder.
However, the family insists that justice is incomplete until all those who aided or concealed the crime are also apprehended and prosecuted.
Tragic End to a Young Life
Bamise Ayanwola went missing on February 26, 2022, after boarding a Lagos State-owned BRT bus at the Ajah axis. Driven by Ominikoron, that ride would tragically be her last. Her disappearance triggered national outrage, social media campaigns, and mass protests demanding answers.
Her lifeless body was discovered nine days later under mysterious circumstances on Carter Bridge, Lagos Island—confirming the worst fears of her family and supporters.
Court Verdict After Three Years
After years of legal proceedings, Justice Sherifat Sonaike of the Lagos State High Court at Tafawa Balewa Square on Friday delivered judgment, declaring Ominikoron guilty of multiple criminal charges, including rape, attempted rape, sexual assault, and the murder of Bamise Ayanwola.
Delivering the ruling, Justice Sonaike stated:
“On count one, rape of Nneka Udezulu, the defendant is sentenced to life imprisonment. On count three, attempted rape of Bamise Ayanwola, 14 years imprisonment. On count five, sexual assault on Dr. Victoria Anosike, three years imprisonment.
“For count four—murder of Oluwabamise Ayanwola—you are hereby sentenced to death by hanging pursuant to Section 301 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law. May God have mercy on your soul.”
The ruling was heavily based on the doctrine of “last seen” and the victim’s own dying declarations, which the court deemed credible.
Family Responds: ‘Accomplices Must Be Found’
In reaction to the verdict, the deceased’s elder sister, Onapemipo Damilola, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, commending the judge for her impartiality.
“The judgment was fair and not biased. We are grateful to Justice Sonaike for standing for what is right,” Damilola said.
“However, this is not the end. We demand that the accomplices who helped or concealed this crime be arrested and brought to justice. Our family won’t rest until everyone responsible is held accountable.”
No Government Compensation Yet, Family Says
When asked whether the Lagos State Government had offered any form of compensation or support, Damilola revealed that no such gesture had been made.
“They have not spoken to us about any compensation, and we have not received any support from the government so far,” she added.
Public Outcry and Call for Reforms
Bamise’s case reignited public debate on passenger safety in public transport systems, especially those operated by the government. Human rights advocates have repeatedly called for stricter background checks on commercial drivers and improved surveillance measures within BRT buses.
As justice is served for the primary offender, the family’s plea for the arrest of accomplices echoes the wider public demand for accountability, safety reforms, and justice that goes beyond symbolic punishment.
