Marina, Lagos – Legal proceedings in the case involving the death of Bumpa co-founder, Adetunji “TeeJay” Opayele, have been adjourned to May 28, 2025, as the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) is yet to issue legal advice on the matter.
The case came up at Court 1 of the Tinubu Magistrate District in Lagos on Wednesday, April 16, where the prosecutor informed the presiding magistrate that the DPP’s advice was not ready.
The court subsequently adjourned the matter to allow the DPP time to conclude and submit its recommendations.
What led to TeeJay Opayele’s death?
Opayele, 32, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s tech startup space, tragically lost his life in the late hours of March 4, 2025, following a motorcycle accident on Ozumba Mbadiwe Road in Victoria Island, Lagos. He was struck by a Ford Edge SUV reportedly driven by Abiola Adams-Odutayo, a healthcare professional.
According to police investigations and eyewitness accounts per TechCabal, Adams-Odutayo allegedly failed to yield the right of way while merging onto the expressway. She has also been accused of refusing to assist the injured Opayele at the scene.
Passers-by eventually intervened, and an Uber driver transported him to a hospital after multiple rejections from other facilities. He was confirmed dead shortly after midnight on March 5.
Adams-Odutayo was arraigned on March 12 at the Lagos State High Court, facing charges of reckless driving and causing death by dangerous driving under the Lagos State Road Traffic Law. She pleaded not guilty and was granted bail set at ₦1 million with two sureties.
The incident sparked national outrage, with over 63,000 people signing a petition demanding justice and transparency. Members of Nigeria’s tech ecosystem, friends, and supporters of the late entrepreneur have continued to call for accountability and a thorough judicial process.
About Adetunji Opayele, Bumpa co-founder
Adetunji Opayele was the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Bumpa, a retail automation startup empowering small businesses across Nigeria. Under his leadership, the platform supported over 60,000 merchants and processed transactions exceeding ₦160 billion.
A law graduate from Obafemi Awolowo University who transitioned into tech, Opayele was widely admired for his innovation and impact in Nigeria’s startup landscape.
In his memory, Bumpa has announced plans to launch an AI assistant named “Teejay” within its application to honour his legacy and continue supporting businesses.
The next hearing is expected to provide further direction on the DPP’s stance regarding the continuation or elevation of the charges.
Co-founder of Bukka Hut Laolu Martins passes away
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Laolu Martins, a seasoned investment banker and co-owner of the Nigerian fast-food chain Bukka Hut, passed away on Tuesday, September 27, 2022.
His family confirmed the news in a statement released the following day, requesting privacy as they grieve his loss. Martins had an extensive 21-year career in the financial sector, having worked with institutions such as PricewaterhouseCoopers, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Shell Nigeria CPFA, and Nigerian International Securities Limited (NISL).