The trial of Andrew Ominikoron, the Bus Rapid Transit driver accused of raping and murdering 22-year-old fashion designer Oluwabamise Ayanwole, resumed on Thursday in the Lagos State High Court. Ominikoron opened his defense, asserting his innocence against the serious allegations.
Ominikoron, who began his role as a bus captain in September 2021, testified that he did not commit the crimes he is charged with. During the proceedings, he detailed his work schedule on February 26, 2022, stating he was completing his afternoon shift on a route from Oshodi to Ajah around 7 to 8 pm. He admitted to picking up passengers illegally, a practice he referred to as “Korokpe.”
The defendant faces multiple charges, including rape, conspiracy, felony, sexual assault, and murder, stemming from allegations that he assaulted Ayanwole near the Conservation Centre on the Lekki-Ajah Expressway. The prosecution claims that Ominikoron forcibly assaulted the victim before her death, citing several sections of the Criminal Law of Lagos State.
Ominikoron’s defense has been delayed previously due to an injury he sustained while in custody, which prevented him from attending court. Court officials noted that he had fallen in his cell, resulting in a leg injury.
During his testimony, Ominikoron described an incident where three men allegedly forced him to comply with their demands while he was transporting passengers. He stated that he was threatened at gunpoint, diverting his vehicle and making him unable to assist Ayanwole, who was reportedly screaming for help as the men dragged her away.
He recounted that after the incident, he returned to his normal life until he was informed that Ayanwole was missing. He also mentioned that he spoke to a friend about needing a place to stay due to personal troubles, aligning with his claim of being shocked and overwhelmed by the events.
The defense included audio recordings related to the case, although Ominikoron maintained he was unaware of the recordings until he heard them during police questioning. He additionally denied any involvement in prior allegations of assault or rape against other individuals.
The hearings are set to continue, with the next session scheduled for October 21, 2024, to further explore the details of Ominikoron’s defense.
