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Bamise: BRT driver absent in court over Okada ban, prosecutor tells court

The case of Andrew Ominnikoron, a Bus Rapid Transit driver accused of raping and killing 22-year-old fashion designer Oluwabamisa Ayanwole, was dropped on Wednesday due to absenteeism.

Ominnikoron is facing charges in the Lagos High Court sitting in Tafawa Balewa Square on five counts of conspiracy, rape and murder, selected by the Lagos Regional Government.

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When the case was heard on Wednesday, the Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr Babajide Martins, informed the court that the prisons had not brought prisoners to court due to security concerns regarding the government’s motorcycle ban.

Martins said, “I do not think the accused’s lawyer, Mr Abayomi Omotubora, is present but we have three witnesses in court.

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“The second witness for the prosecutor to complete his testimony, and two other court witnesses.

“I humbly request that today be released and postponed to the scheduled dates.”

Following the incident, Judge Sherifat Sonaike adjourned the case to June 7 for further trial.

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The Governor of the Lagos Region, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on May 18, announced a complete ban on the operation of motorcycles for sale in six local government areas with effect from 1 June.

Following the development and organized protest of motorcyclists, the Director of Prisons, Adebisi Adewale, has called for the suspension of the transfer of prisoners to various state courts.

This was caused by intelligence and security reports about possible breaches of the law and order during the protest.

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As a result of these developments some courts did not remain in place as prisoners were not released from prisons.

During the trial, the second witness for the prosecutor, Kayode Aluko, one of the BRT’s executives, recounted how Ominnikoron had escaped after receiving information about the alleged rape and murder.

The prosecutor said the case took place on February 26, at 7.00 p.m., at the Lekki-Ajah Conservation center Lekki Ajah expressway Lagos and Carter bridge.

Police also alleged that the accused had sex with Ayanwole without her consent and then killed her.

According to the prosecutor, the case is in conflict with the provisions of sections 165, 223, 260 and 411 of the Lagos State Criminal Code 2015.

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However, the 47-year-old defendant has pleaded not guilty to the charge

 

 

 

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