Andrew Ominikoron, the Bus Rapid Transit driver accused of raping and murdering 22-year-old fashion designer Oluwabamise Ayanwole, began his defense in a Lagos State High Court on Thursday. Ominikoron faces charges of rape, conspiracy, felony, sexual assault and murder.
Testifying before Justice Sherifat Sonaike, Ominikoron denied the allegations, stating he began his shift at 1 p.m. on February 26, 2022, and was assigned the Oshodi-Ajah route. After completing his first trip, he embarked on a return trip around 7-8 p.m., picking up passengers illegally, a practice known as “Korokpe.”
Ominikoron claimed one male passenger attacked him, brandishing a gun and ordering him to divert the bus. He alleged the passenger instructed him to shift to neutral gear and dim the interior lights. Ominikoron stated he didn’t know the three men or recognize them later.
The defense presented an audio recording by Oluwabamise, played in court, which Ominikoron claimed he didn’t know about until it was played at the Panti Police Station. He alleged police torture influenced his statements.
Ominikoron denied engaging in inappropriate conduct with passengers, accusing the male passengers of assaulting Oluwabamise. He admitted picking up passengers illegally, against company policy, and fled the depot fearing consequences.
Addressing other incidents, Ominikoron denied raping MaryJane on November 25, 2021, and an attempted rape of a doctor in Ikorodu on December 29, 2021.
The case was adjourned to October 21, 2024, for further examination.
