Ojwang: Protests erupt in Nairobi as KNCHR, IPOA demand action

By Newsflash Writer

Nairobi, June 9, 2025 — Outrage erupted in Nairobi today following the death of popular X influencer and teacher Albert Omondi Ojwang, who died under suspicious circumstances while in police custody at the Nairobi Central Police Station.

The incident has sparked widespread protests, condemnation from human rights watchdogs, and calls for top-level resignations within the National Police Service.

Protesters gathered outside the City Mortuary early Monday morning, blocking parts of Ngong Road and causing significant traffic disruption. Chants of “Ruto must go,” “Justice for Ojwang,” and “Lagat must be arrested!” echoed through the streets as demonstrators demanded accountability and transparency from the police and government. The late Ojwang’s death has provoked national outrage, particularly on social media, where his influence as a vocal critic of state institutions had garnered him a considerable following.

Among those leading the protests were prominent human rights activist Hanifa Adan, Vocal Africa CEO Hussein Khalid, university student leader Joshua Okayo, and scholar-turned-activist Fred Ogola. The group accused the police of executing a cover-up and demanded justice for what they termed a “state-sanctioned killing.”

KNCHR, IPOA condemn police conduct

The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) released a strongly worded statement Monday morning condemning the police’s handling of the case. The Commission expressed deep concern over the premature assertion by police that Ojwang died by suicide, citing the claim as unverified and damaging to public trust. According to KNCHR Vice Chairperson Dr. Raymond Nyeris, officials from the Commission observed multiple visible injuries on Ojwang’s body, including bruises to the face, hands, and the back of the head. Blood was also seen on his mouth and nose, raising serious questions about the cause of death.

IPOA chairperson Ahmed Isaack Hassan. Photo/IPOA/X

“This is not just a tragedy; it is a gross violation of human rights and a betrayal of the Constitution,” said Dr. Nyeris. “Albert died in the custody of the State, where he was supposed to be safe. This reflects a deeply worrying pattern of abuse and impunity within our police service.”

KNCHR has launched an independent investigation under Article 59 of the Constitution and the Prevention of Torture Act 2017. The Commission is also coordinating efforts with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), which separately confirmed the launch of its own investigation on Sunday, June 8.

IPOA Chairperson Ahmed Issack Hassan affirmed that the authority had visited the Central Police Station, documented the scene, and interviewed five officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations. IPOA officials were also present at City Mortuary where a postmortem was scheduled to take place today. Hassan reiterated IPOA’s commitment to an independent and impartial investigation, adding that any findings of criminal culpability would be forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Protesters demand accountability

The protestors have specifically targeted Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, who, according to Inspector General Douglas Kanja, had lodged the defamation complaint that led to Ojwang’s arrest. Critics argue that the arrest and transfer of Ojwang from Homa Bay to Nairobi—over 400 kilometers away—was unnecessary and suspicious, fueling speculation that the teacher-turned-activist was being targeted.

“Why was he transported such a long distance instead of being charged in Homa Bay where he was arrested?” asked student leader Okayo during the protests. “This is more than just negligence. We believe this was premeditated.”

Eyewitnesses reported that the protest outside the mortuary quickly escalated, prompting the deployment of anti-riot police who formed a barricade around the building. Later, when demonstrators attempted to march to Nairobi Central Police Station, they were blocked from entering despite demanding answers.

KNHCR Vice Chairperson Dr Raymond Nyeris in a past address. Photo/Citizen Digital

Ojwang, known online for his satirical political commentary, had been arrested on Saturday, June 7, over alleged defamatory remarks against DIG Lagat. According to a police statement, he was found unconscious in his cell during a routine check and pronounced dead upon arrival at Mbagathi Hospital at 1:39 a.m. on Sunday. The official police narrative—suggesting that Ojwang may have harmed himself—has been widely rejected by civil society and the general public.

The KNCHR has urged anyone with relevant information about Ojwang’s death to come forward via its toll-free hotline, SMS service, or email, promising anonymity and protection for whistleblowers. Meanwhile, IPOA pledged to keep the public informed as investigations progress.

“We must not allow Albert’s death to become just another statistic,” said Dr. Nyeris. “This is a test for Kenya’s democracy and its commitment to human rights. The youth are watching. The world is watching.”

As tensions continue to rise and calls for accountability grow louder, Kenya stands at a critical juncture, with Ojwang’s death emerging as a flashpoint in the broader debate over police brutality, press freedom, and the State’s duty to protect its citizens.