The Lagos State High Court in Tafawa Balewa Square has adjourned the trial of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) driver, Andrew Ominikoron, accused of raping and murdering 22-year-old fashion designer Oluwabamise Ayanwole, to March 3, 2025, for the adoption of the final written address.
Justice Sherifat Sonaike fixed the new date following the absence of the defence counsel, Mr. Abayomi Omotubora. The case had previously been adjourned on January 30, 2025, and was slated for hearing on February 10, 2025. However, Omotubora was again absent when the case came up on Monday, prompting the court to further adjourn proceedings.
This is not the first time the defence counsel’s absence has stalled the trial. On November 29, 2024, the court also adjourned the case due to Omotubora’s absence, citing ill health.
Ominikoron is facing a four-count charge of conspiracy, rape, and murder, brought against him by the Lagos State Government. He was arraigned in March 2022 over the alleged rape and murder of Ayanwole, which reportedly occurred on February 26, 2022, along the Lekki-Ajah Conservation Expressway.
According to the prosecution, the defendant and others at large unlawfully killed Ayanwole by throwing her out of a moving bus between the Lekki-Ajah Expressway and Carter Bridge.
The prosecution stated that the offences contravene Sections 411, 223, 260, and 165 of the Lagos State Criminal Law, 2015. However, Ominikoron pleaded not guilty to all charges.
