While the Lagos High Court's verdict was seen as a landmark decision in the fight against gender-based violence and in promoting the safety of public transportation, the grieving family’s statement has reignited a national conversation, particularly around issues of transparency, systemic failure, and unresolved aspects of the case.

The family of 22-year-old Bamise Ayanwola, who was brutally raped and murdered by a Lagos BRT driver, Andrew Nice Ominikoron — recently sentenced to death — has questioned whether justice has truly been served.

While the Lagos High Court's verdict was seen as a landmark decision in the fight against gender-based violence and in promoting the safety of public transportation, the grieving family’s statement has reignited a national conversation, particularly around issues of transparency, systemic failure, and unresolved aspects of the case.

The family’s official release, obtained by SaharaReporters on Monday, asserted that while a conviction has been secured, justice remains incomplete.

"Where is Bamise's phone?" the statement asks. The phone, which reportedly held critical voice notes and communications from Bamise in her final moments, has never been recovered. 

According to the family, this single device might unlock hidden truths, suggesting that the killer may not have acted alone. 

The family also raised troubling questions surrounding other individuals mentioned in Bamise’s desperate voice notes. 

They added that eyewitnesses and survivors reportedly spoke of other people aboard the BRT bus the night Bamise went missing —yet none had been arrested or publicly investigated.

The family is urging the government to reopen or extend investigations to uncover possible accomplices, questioning the convict's well-being while in detention. 

The statement reads in part: "The Ayanwola Abegunde family stands before you today, humbled and grief-stricken, to address the heinous crime that took the life of our beloved daughter, Bamise, and to respond to the court judgment. We appreciate the opportunity to share our thoughts, concerns, and gratitude with the nation and the world at large.

"We thank the Almighty God, who in His infinite wisdom allowed this incident to occur and gave Bamise the instinct and wisdom to expose this atrocity, leading to the pronounced judgment.

"We commend Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for keeping his promise to ensure justice for Bamise and appreciate the state's prosecution team for their diligence despite challenges.

"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the late Barrister Ogunlana, Barrister Ayo Ademiluyi, and the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, Lagos Branch, led by Comrade Kehinde Adeoye, for their tireless efforts in seeking justice.

"The death sentence given to Andrew Nice Ominikoron is a welcome development, and we appreciate Justice Sherifat Sonaike’s unbiased judgment, which will be remembered for its significance.

"Despite the judgment, we still have concerns and questions: Where is Bamise's phone? The truth is in the details, and her phone may hold the key to unravelling the mystery. An investigation should have been conducted to find out where the phone is, to ascertain all culprits and their locations.

"Where are the other individuals mentioned in Bamise's voice notes and eyewitness accounts? Justice will only be served when all perpetrators are brought to book.

"What happened to Bamise's belongings, which were reportedly on the bus? The smallest detail can make a significant difference in uncovering the truth.

"Why is the convict reportedly appearing better fed and looking robust while in detention, compared to others found guilty of similar crimes? Equality before the law demands equal treatment.

"We urge the government and relevant authorities to: Ensure that such an evil menace is never repeated in our country again. Prevention is better than cure, and proactive measures can save lives.

"Learn from the circumstances surrounding Bamise's death and take necessary measures to protect all citizens and commuters. Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.

"Adopt a proactive security approach to prevent similar incidents. A stitch in time saves nine; Increase budgets for security to protect citizens. Investing in security is investing in human lives; Embrace technology in combating crime in our states and territories. Technology is a powerful tool in the fight against crime.

"Strengthen female child protection laws in the state. The safety of our children is our collective responsibility; Educate students on the importance of ICT. Empowering our youth with knowledge is empowering our future; Make information trackable in the telecommunications industry. Transparency is key to accountability.

"Fully equip hospitals with sophisticated gadgets for treatment and information delivery. Quality healthcare is a fundamental human right; Support the establishment of a foundation in Bamise's memory to promote justice and protect human rights. Legacy is not about what we leave behind, but about the impact we make.

"As a bereaved family, we seek some level of consolation and hope the government acknowledges our pain. We've lost our dear child, Bamise, and pray that her memory will serve as a catalyst for change.

"We humbly request continued prayers from the world, especially for our aged parents, that God grants them succor and comfort. We crave the emotional indulgence of women, particularly mothers, to pray for our mother during this difficult time.

"We extend our gratitude to all concerned citizens, at home and abroad, who supported Justice for Bamise. May justice and peace reign. May God comfort us all. We also pray that evil will not befall our supporters and those who showed concern for us.

"As we conclude, we are still waiting to see what the government will do to show concern and care for our family during this difficult time. The family is the natural and fundamental unit of society and is entitled to protection by society and the state. We hope that the government will prioritise family support and protection, as advocated by the International Human Rights Commission," the statement added.