By Ihechi Enyinnaya
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting victims of domestic and sexual violence, urging those affected to come forward without fear of exposure. This assurance comes in the wake of the conviction of Andrew Nice Ominikoron, the former BRT driver responsible for the rape and murder of Bamise Ayanwole.
In a statement issued by the Hon. Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro (SAN), the government highlighted that the recent judgment serves as a clear message that perpetrators of such heinous crimes will be brought to justice.
“The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) is open to all victims,” Pedro said. “And the protection of their identity from members of the public is guaranteed during prosecution.”
The High Court sitting in Lagos found Ominikoron guilty of multiple crimes, including the murder of Bamise Ayanwole in a BRT bus. He was sentenced to death by hanging for the murder, 14 years imprisonment for attempted rape, life imprisonment for the rape of another victim, Mary Jane Nwazulu, and 3 years imprisonment for sexually assaulting Dr. Victoria Anosike.
The case, which began with Ominikoron’s arraignment in March 2022, was closely followed by the public due to its shocking nature. Though no eyewitness directly observed the crime, the court relied on compelling circumstantial evidence and the dying declaration of Bamise to reach its verdict. His actions following the incident, including fleeing to a remote village, were also considered by the court as indicators of guilt.
Justice Sonaike, in delivering the judgment on May 2, 2025, emphasized that Ominikoron’s crimes, committed over a short period, suggest the possibility of other victims who may have remained silent due to fear or shame.
The state government has since introduced preventive measures to deter individuals from abusing positions of public trust. Authorities continue to encourage victims of abuse to report such incidents, stressing that their safety, anonymity, and access to justice are priorities.