A London bus driver has been jailed for four years after causing the death of nine-year-old Ada Bicakcim, who was struck on the pavement while walking with her family in Bexleyheath last August.
The driver, Martin Asolo-Ogugua, 23, admitted to causing death by dangerous driving and driving while unfit through drugs (cannabis) after partying all night and turning up for duty on August 3, 2024.
A Father’s Heartbreaking Tribute
Speaking outside Woolwich Crown Court today, Bora Bicakcim, Ada’s father, gave an emotional statement:
“The images of that horrific moment remain seared into my mind.
That scene replays endlessly, a constant reminder of the day my world fractured beyond repair.
My darling Ada… your presence and passing will leave a mark in this country.
We will fight to make drug driving a part of history.”
He described his daughter as a beacon of light in their family and vowed to campaign for stronger action against drug driving in the UK.
Court Outcome
At a previous hearing on April 22, Asolo-Ogugua pleaded guilty to both charges. Today, he was sentenced to:
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Four years imprisonment
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Seven-year driving disqualification
Senior Crown Prosecutor Miranda Jollie said:
“Asolo-Ogugua was reckless and utterly selfish to get behind the wheel of a bus after consuming drugs.
His actions have robbed a young girl of her life. I hope this sentence brings some measure of closure for Ada’s loved ones.”
