BREAKING: DIG Eliud Lagat Faces Arrest Over Blogger Albert Ojwang’s Death Amid Rising Public Outrage

The death of blogger and teacher Albert Ojwang has rocked the nation, igniting public fury and shaking the core of Kenya’s police command. What began as a mysterious death in custody has spiraled into a full-blown national crisis, now threatening the career, and possibly the freedom, of one of the country’s top police officers. 

The spotlight is squarely on Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Eliud Lagat, who faces imminent arrest over alleged involvement in Ojwang’s death at Nairobi’s Central Police Station.  

According to The Star, Lagat had previously filed a complaint against Ojwang, accusing him of tarnishing his reputation. Days later, Ojwang was arrested, and never left the station alive. 

An autopsy report ruled out the initial claims of self-inflicted injuries, instead revealing that Ojwang died from severe soft tissue trauma, head injuries, and neck compression. The findings have further enraged a public already suspicious of the official narrative. 

Massive protests erupted in Nairobi’s CBD, overshadowing even the national budget presentation by Treasury CS John Mbadi. Protesters chanting “Lagat must go!” marched through the capital, demanding justice for Ojwang and accountability at the highest levels of law enforcement. 

The demonstrations, which began peacefully, turned chaotic as some protestors torched two vehicles and vandalized property. These events reflect a deeper, simmering frustration with the police, especially concerning brutality and impunity. 

In a rare move, the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), chaired by Isaack Hassan, has confirmed it will summon DIG Lagat to testify. IPOA’s decision signals the seriousness of the investigation, especially given Lagat’s seniority. 

Speaking before MPs, Inspector General Douglas Kanja stated clearly: “The DIG will undoubtedly write a statement if he is going to be mentioned adversely by IPOA. Based on that, he will step aside and enable that investigation to be finished.” 

Kanja’s remarks suggest that Lagat’s position is now untenable pending the outcome of the investigations. 

Adding to his woes, the National Police Service Commission (NPSC) has confirmed receipt of a petition seeking to have Lagat removed from office. Under Article 47 of the Kenyan Constitution, the NPSC will review the matter and submit a legally binding recommendation to the President if two-thirds of the commission support the allegations. 

Human rights organisations, civil society, politicians, and concerned citizens have united in demanding justice. The consensus is clear: Ojwang was killed in police custody, and those responsible, no matter how high-ranking, must be held accountable. 

This unprecedented case is not only a litmus test for IPOA and the NPSC but also for Kenya’s entire justice system. Whether or not DIG Eliud Lagat is arrested, suspended, or removed will send a powerful message about the state’s willingness, or unwillingness, to confront police impunity head-on.