Governors demand swift probe into death of influencer Alfred Ojwang

CoG Chairperson Ahmed Abdulahi speaking on June 9, 2025 / Screengrab

The Council of Governors has called for a swift and thorough investigation into the death of social media influencer Alfred Ojwang.

They condemned the circumstances surrounding his death, describing it as both unjustifiable and deeply troubling. Ojwang died while in police custody.

CoG chairperson Ahmed Abdulahi said it was inconceivable that Ojwang, who was arrested in Homa Bay, was transported all the way to Nairobi instead of being charged locally.

“Such deaths are unacceptable. It was distressing to read about, and it’s disheartening to witness the unrest it has triggered among Gen Z and across the country. Whatever he was accused of, it should have been handled in Homa Bay,” Abdulahi said.

He argued that Ojwang should have been subjected to due process, which would have given him the chance to defend himself.

The governors are demanding accountability from all involved, emphasising that the sanctity of life must be upheld at all costs.

Abdulahi stated that all those directly or indirectly linked to Ojwang’s death must be held to account, in accordance with the law.

Kakamega Governor and CoG finance committee chair, Fernandes Barasa, also condemned the incident. He has called for an immediate and comprehensive investigation, urging the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to move swiftly and provide answers to Ojwang’s family.

Ojwang had travelled to Homa Bay to visit relatives when he was arrested by police. He was later taken to Nairobi’s Central Police Station for further questioning.

Police allege he died by suicide after injuring himself while alone in a cell.

Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, confirmed that IPOA had been formally notified to begin investigations, as required by law.

To support a thorough and impartial inquiry, Kanja announced the immediate interdiction of all officers involved.

Those interdicted include the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Central Police Station, the duty officer on the night in question, the cell sentry, all officers present at the report office that night, and any other officers found to have been on duty or otherwise connected to the incident.