In a landmark ruling, a Lagos High Court has sentenced the driver of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) vehicle to death for the brutal murder of 22-year-old Bamise Ayanwole. The court found the defendant guilty of abducting, sexually assaulting, and killing Bamise in February 2022, an incident that sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice.
The case garnered significant attention across Nigeria, particularly after Bamise’s body was discovered under mysterious circumstances after she boarded the BRT bus. Her disappearance on the evening of February 26, 2022, was followed by weeks of public outcry and a heightened demand for accountability, as well as improved safety measures for women using public transport in Lagos and other parts of the country.
The defendant, who was employed as a driver by the Lagos State-owned BRT service, had denied the charges throughout the trial. However, the prosecution presented compelling evidence, including CCTV footage and witness testimonies, that linked him directly to the crime. The footage showed Bamise in distress during her ride, which ultimately ended with her lifeless body being found on the Carter Bridge in Lagos.
In delivering the verdict, the judge emphasized the severity of the crime, describing it as “heinous and wicked,” and noted that the victim’s life was taken in a particularly cruel and callous manner. The court also considered the impact of the crime on Bamise’s family, friends, and the broader public, who had been shaken by the tragic event.
The prosecution argued that the crime was premeditated, and the defendant had taken advantage of his position as a trusted public servant to commit the murder. In contrast, the defense team maintained that their client had acted out of fear and self-defense, but the court found no merit in this claim.
Bamise’s family expressed relief and a sense of closure after the sentencing. Her mother, in a brief statement after the ruling, thanked the court for its decision and reiterated the family’s hope that the verdict would serve as a deterrent to others who might consider committing similar crimes. Her death sparked a broader conversation about women’s safety in public spaces, and many have called for stronger measures to prevent violence against women, particularly in urban centers.
The death sentence, however, has sparked mixed reactions. While many have praised the court for its swift justice, others have questioned the fairness of the penalty, with some calling for reforms in Nigeria’s justice system regarding the use of capital punishment. The case has also ignited discussions on the safety of passengers using public transport and the responsibilities of transport service providers in ensuring security.
The driver’s legal team has indicated plans to appeal the judgment, but for now, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of justice and the need for greater protection for vulnerable individuals in public spaces.
As the legal process unfolds, the murder of Bamise Ayanwole remains a tragic chapter in Nigeria’s ongoing fight for justice, equality, and public safety.
