BRT driver’s absence stalls alleged murder trial

The trial of a driver of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), Andrew Ominnikoron, who was charged with the rape and murder of a 22-year-old fashion designer, Oluwabamise Ayanwole, was on Wednesday stalled due to the absence of the defendant.

Ominnikoron, is standing trial before a Lagos High Court sitting in Tafawa Balewa Square, on a five-count charge bordering on conspiracy, rape and murder, preferred against him by the Lagos State Government.

The Director of Public Prosecutions, Dr. Babajide Martins, informed the court that the prisons service did not bring the inmates to court due to security reasons over the commercial motorcycles’ ban in the state.

Martins added, “I don’t think the defendant’s counsel, Mr Abayomi Omotubora, is here but we have three witnesses in court.” The second prosecution witness who needs to finish his evidence, and two other witnesses are in court.

“I humbly request that today’s date be vacated and adjourned to other dates that have already been fixed.”

Following the development, Justice Sherifat Sonaike, adjourned the case until June 7 for continuation of trial.