The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) has launched a major operation targeting Nyamira Governor Amos Nyaribo over a Ksh382 million corruption scandal. Detectives raided his home and offices in Nyamira, Kisii, and Nairobi counties in a coordinated crackdown.
The early morning operation also targeted senior county officials suspected of participating in the fraudulent tender scheme. EACC officers seized vital documents and digital devices believed to contain evidence of procurement irregularities and the possible embezzlement of public funds.
Inside the Nyaribo Ksh382 Million Corruption Investigation
The EACC’s investigation centers on an inflated Ksh382 million tender for the construction of a Nyamira County Government office complex. The contract was awarded to a construction firm accused of receiving massive payments for incomplete and substandard work. Sources within the commission said valuation reports point to significant financial loss and lack of value for taxpayer money.
Detectives believe the project was deliberately overpriced to facilitate kickbacks to key officials in the county administration. Among those under scrutiny are officials in the Departments of Housing and Physical Planning, Finance and Accounting, and Roads and Public Works.
Investigators also allege that Governor Nyaribo personally benefited from irregular payments amounting to Ksh18 million. The EACC claims he authorized Ksh5 million to himself as a “voluntary payment” and an additional Ksh13 million disguised as a house allowance reimbursement. These transactions, according to insiders, were not approved by the County Assembly or backed by legal documentation.
Key Offices and Residences Targeted in EACC Raid
During the Wednesday operation, EACC officers raided several county offices, including procurement, accounting, and executive departments. The coordinated searches were executed simultaneously in three counties—Nyamira, Kisii, and Nairobi. The aim was to recover evidence showing how the tender was awarded and how payments were processed.
Officials close to the investigation confirmed that computers, flash drives, mobile phones, and financial ledgers were seized. The EACC said the evidence will help trace the money trail and identify the officials who may have received kickbacks.
The commission is also investigating whether fake invoices and falsified progress reports were used to justify overpayments to the contractor. Preliminary findings indicate that the project stalled despite the contractor receiving more than 70 percent of the total contract value.
A source privy to the investigation said the EACC is looking into multiple layers of fraud involving forged documentation, conflict of interest, and collusion between county executives and suppliers. “This was not just mismanagement—it was a deliberate plan to loot,” said the source.
Growing List of Governors Under EACC Scrutiny
Governor Nyaribo joins a growing list of county bosses under investigation by the EACC. In August, the commission revealed that nine governors were facing corruption probes at various stages. Chairperson David Oginde described the extent of graft in devolved units as “deeply worrying” and said EACC would intensify crackdowns on county-level economic crimes.
Earlier this year, EACC detectives raided the home and office of Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi over alleged misuse of county funds. Nine senior officials were also questioned in connection with the scandal. In another case, Trans Nzoia Governor George Natembeya faced investigations after EACC officers raided his residence and offices linked to irregular procurement worth Ksh1.4 billion.
These developments reflect a broader pattern of graft in devolved governments, where inflated contracts, ghost projects, and kickbacks continue to drain billions of shillings meant for development.
Governance experts say the Nyamira case is another reminder of the urgent need for financial accountability in counties. “If EACC successfully prosecutes this case, it could send a powerful message to other governors that public funds are not personal property,” said political analyst Martin Obiero.
What Lies Ahead for Governor Nyaribo
Governor Amos Nyaribo has not publicly commented on the raids, but his administration has previously denied any wrongdoing. County insiders say the governor spent much of the day meeting legal advisors and senior staff after the raid.
EACC officers have already summoned several county officials for questioning, and more arrests could follow as investigations progress. The commission is expected to forward its findings to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for possible criminal charges.
If charged and found guilty, Nyaribo could face removal from office, heavy fines, and a ban from holding public office.
Residents of Nyamira have expressed frustration over the alleged misuse of funds, saying poor roads, stalled projects, and unpaid workers reflect years of mismanagement. “We voted for change, not corruption,” said one resident in Nyamira town.
Summary of Allegations Against Governor Nyaribo
| Allegation | Amount Involved (Ksh) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Inflated County Office Tender | 382 million | Contract awarded for incomplete work |
| Irregular Self-Payments | 18 million | Unauthorized house allowance and voluntary payment |
| Loss of Public Funds | Undetermined | Linked to procurement fraud and overpricing |
