Over Two Years After, 22-Year-Old Bamise Ayanwola Raped, Killed By BRT Bus Lagos Yet To Get Justice –Activist
Human rights activist Francis Nwapa has accused the Lagos State government of failing to deliver justice for 22-year-old fashion designer Bamise Ayanwola, who was allegedly raped and murdered by a driver of the Lagos State Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in February 2022. Nwapa, in a recent post on his social media account, urged Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to swiftly ensure that Bamise receives justice, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
According to reports, Bamise’s tragic death occurred over 800 days ago, yet justice remains elusive. A pathologist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital confirmed that Bamise was indeed murdered, suffering severe craniocerebral injury due to blunt force trauma. The pathologist’s testimony in court detailed the autopsy findings, including the absence of clothing on Bamise’s body except for a silver-colored ring on her finger.
The driver of the BRT bus, Andrew Nice Ominnikoron, was arrested in connection with Bamise’s death and faces charges including felony, sexual assault, rape, conspiracy, and murder. Bamise went missing after boarding a BRT vehicle from Chevron Bus Stop to Oshodi. During the journey, she reportedly became distressed when the driver bypassed other passengers’ stops along the route. She communicated her concerns to a friend via messages and voice notes, but tragically, this was the last contact her loved ones had with her.
Despite extensive efforts by the Lagos State Police Command, Bamise’s body was found on Carter Bridge. However, her family and supporters continue to demand justice and accountability for her senseless death.
The delay in securing justice for Bamise highlights systemic failures within the criminal justice system and underscores the need for swift and effective action to address gender-based violence. As the case remains unresolved, pressure mounts on the authorities to ensure that those responsible for Bamise’s death are brought to justice and that measures are implemented to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Sahara Reporters
